[Change in corneal sensitivity after topical dorzolamide administration. A comparative study]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Dorzolamide is a new antiglaucoma medication.
• Common local side effects include eye burning, itching, blurred vision, and foreign-body sensation.
• A clinical study investigated dorzolamide's impact on corneal sensitivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine if dorzolamide influences corneal sensitivity.
• To quantify changes in corneal sensitivity after dorzolamide application.

Main Methods:

• Three groups were studied: sodium chloride solution (0.9%), oxybuprocaine (0.4% local anesthetic), and dorzolamide.
• Participants were divided into two age subgroups: 23-40 years and 60-86 years.
• Corneal sensitivity was measured using Draeger's electronic optic aesthesiometer before and at intervals up to 20 minutes post-application.

Main Results:

• Sodium chloride solution did not significantly alter corneal sensitivity.
• Oxybuprocaine caused temporary corneal insensitivity, with sensitivity returning to baseline around 20 minutes, though still reduced in older adults.
• Dorzolamide induced slight, but significant, hyposensitivity in younger adults at 1 and 5 minutes post-application.

Conclusions:

• Dorzolamide causes a minor, temporary decrease in corneal sensitivity.
• Individuals with glaucoma using contact lenses should avoid insertion for at least 15 minutes after applying dorzolamide eye drops.