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Topical Losartan in Ophthalmology: Rationale, Experimental and Clinical Evidence, and Emerging Clinical Applications
Barbara Burgos-Blasco1, Mercedes Molero-Senosiain1, Pilar Perez-Garcia1
1Servicio Oftalmologia, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria del Hospital Clínico San Carlos (IdISSC), 28040 Madrid, Spain.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|February 27, 2026
Summary
Topical losartan shows promise in preventing corneal fibrosis, a major cause of vision loss. Further clinical trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety for various eye injuries.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Fibrosis research
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Corneal fibrosis significantly impairs vision, driven by transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling.
- Losartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, exhibits antifibrotic effects by indirectly inhibiting TGF-β.
- Emerging evidence suggests topical losartan may reduce corneal scarring after injury.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the scientific basis for using topical losartan in ophthalmology.
- To summarize its molecular mechanisms, pharmacology, and safety.
- To evaluate preclinical and clinical evidence for its antifibrotic potential in the cornea.
Main Methods:
- Review of preclinical studies in corneal models.
- Analysis of emerging clinical data on topical losartan.
- Examination of molecular mechanisms and pharmacological properties.
Main Results:
- Topical losartan demonstrates antifibrotic properties in various corneal injury models.
- It offers a potentially non-cytotoxic approach to managing corneal fibrosis.
- Limited human data exists, necessitating further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Topical losartan is a promising strategy for attenuating corneal fibrosis.
- More randomized controlled trials are essential to establish optimal use and long-term safety.
- Definitive clinical guidelines require further evidence generation.
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