Timolol in the treatment of hard-to-heal wounds: a comprehensive review

The aims of this study were to ascertain the effectiveness and safety of the off-label use of topical timolol as an adjunct treatment for hard-to-heal (chronic) wounds. Furthermore, to review and analyse the existing literature regarding the use of topical timolol on wounds of varying aetiologies.

A systematic review of literature in the English language published between May 1961-May 2021 on the application of topical timolol for hard-to-heal wounds in adults was performed. Each research study was evaluated by two reviewers independently. Studies eligible for inclusion in the review were randomised controlled trials (RCTs), clinical trials, observational studies of at least 4 weeks' duration, case series and case studies. Search strategies were performed according to PRISMA guidelines and included MeSH terms and keyword searches.

An initial 878 articles were identified from a search of PubMed, Ovid Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and SCOPUS. Of these, 699 were reviewed for eligibility, 19 were read in full-text, and 12 were selected for inclusion in the review. In total, two RCTs and 10 observational studies, including five case studies, were analysed. All studies demonstrated efficacy and safety of topical timolol; however, statistical analysis remained limited by lack of blinding and small sample sizes.

This review concludes with all currently available evidence that topical timolol may be considered as an effective and safe adjunct treatment for refractory wounds, primarily venous leg ulcers and diabetic foot ulcers. Given the overall safety, low cost and ease of application of topical timolol, this review provides evidence in favour of off-label use and should prompt further, more rigorous studies.