Long-term effects of topically applied epinephrine on the blood-ocular barrier in humans

Arch Ophthalmol. 1987 Oct;105(10):1360-3. doi: 10.1001/archopht.1987.01060100062026.

Abstract

Epinephrine (1.25%) was applied topically twice daily to both eyes of 22 patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Half of these patients received topical indomethacin (0.5%) three times daily in one eye; the other half received indomethacin placebo under the same regimen. Blood-aqueous and blood-retinal barrier functions were determined by aqueous and vitreous fluorophotometry before and 1, 2, 3, and 7 months after initiation of treatment. Epinephrine-induced disruption of the blood-aqueous barrier, noted at two months, apparently remained constant until the completion of the study. At months 2, 3, and 7, indomethacin significantly inhibited this disruption. The blood-retinal barrier was unaffected. These results bear on the hypotensive mechanism of topically applied epinephrine.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Topical
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aqueous Humor / metabolism
  • Blood-Retinal Barrier / drug effects
  • Capillary Permeability / drug effects*
  • Epinephrine / pharmacology*
  • Eye / blood supply*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure / drug effects
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pupil / drug effects
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Epinephrine