Background: Prostanoids are the newest pharmacologic group of ocular hypotensive drugs for clinical management of glaucoma. The group includes four chemical compounds structurally derived from naturally-occurring prostaglandin (PG) F(2). Prostanoids have been divided into PG analogues (unoprostone, latanoprost and travoprost) and prostamides (bimatoprost) because of differences in molecular structures. The drugs share a novel mechanism of action that produces a potent ocular hypotensive effect and a novel local adverse effect of increased iridial pigmentation.
Objective: To summarise the pharmacologic and clinical data regarding the effectiveness and safety of prostanoids in clinical glaucoma management.
Methods: The review was supported by a literature search of peer-reviewed publications, based on medical information available in databases such as PubMed.
Results/conclusion: The prostanoids began a treatment revolution not only because of their novel mechanism of action but also as a result of a new local side effect.