Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose:To evaluate the effect of brimonidine tartarate 0.15% (BT) (Alphagan P) on pupil size and corneal sensations. Methods: Pupil size (photopic and scotopic (Colvart Pupilometer)) and corneal sensation were evaluated (Cochet-Bonet aesthesiometer) in 21 normal volunteers following the single administration of BT at 30 minutes, 1, 2 and 4 hours. Results: Pupil size was significantly decreased at all post administration time points as compared to the fellow eye and to the baseline value, by as much as 30%. Corneal sensation was significantly decreased at 2 hours only for volunteers with blue or green eyes, although 2 volunteers had significant decrease in sensation being noted at 4 hours. Two volunteers (10%) had significant periocular discomfort lasting 24 and 48 hours respectively. Conclusions: BT produces significant pupilary constriction following a single application under both photopic and scotopic conditions lasting at lease 4 hours and may be helpful for patients who have visual symptoms under photopic conditions following various refractive surgery procedures. However, some patients may develop unacceptable discomfort precluding its use. Mild decreased corneal sensation may play a role in post LASIK flap slippage as postulated by others and may be an important consideration in postoperative dry eye syndrome.
Keywords: pupil • refractive surgery • refractive surgery: complications