Topical verapamil in glaucoma filtration surgery

Abstract

Purpose: Because of the reported antifibroblastic effect of verapamil, a calcium-channel blocker, we investigated the potential benefit of adjunctive topical verapamil in patients undergoing glaucoma filtration surgery.

Methods: This prospective, double-masked, randomized study included 56 eyes of 56 consecutive patients with chronic open-angle glaucoma undergoing trabeculectomy (primary or surgical revision of failed trabeculectomy), trabeculectomy combined with cataract surgery, or Molteno drainage device implantation. Postoperatively, the treated eyes received verapamil (0.25%) or one drop of placebo four times a day for 1 month in addition to 1% prednisolone four times a day and corticosteroid-antibiotic ophthalmic ointment at bedtime.

Results: There were no significant differences in preoperative mean intraocular pressure, mean number of medications, and glaucoma severity between the verapamil and placebo groups. There were also no significant differences between the two groups in filtration success rate, mean intraocular pressure, and mean number of medications on postoperative days 1, 4, or 7 and at postoperative months 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 (P > 0.05).

Conclusion: There was no significant benefit of adjunctive topical verapamil when it was used after trabeculectomy, trabeculectomy combined with cataract surgery, or Molteno drainage device implantation.