The USFDA has just approved the new bimatoprost implant (Durysta, by Allergan), for patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. This new biodegradable implant provides sustained drug release, and is placed in the anterior chamber of the eye.
The drug is deposited inside the eye via an injection, in the space between your cornea and the iris. The new bimatoprost implant contains 10 mcg bimatoprost that is preloaded in a single-use applicator.
This new method of drug delivery is via an injection in the eye, but it does mean freedom from eye drops for at least a year!
Does the new Bimatoprost implant work?
Its efficacy has been non inferior as twice daily timolol drops, with IOP lowering being about 30% from baseline. In fact, in the FDA study with 1222 patients, 80% did not require any other treatment for at least a year.
Moreover, it means you do not have to use your eye drops every day.
Is the implant something I can benefit from?
Yes, if you have primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, the new implant may help you. Your doctor will obviously first make sure that you are not allergic to bimatoprost, by using the eye drops, before recommending the implant.
the most obvious benefit, of course, is that you dont have to remember to use your eye drops every day. This is a tremendous advantage.
Is everyone eligible for the new bimatoprost implant?
For now, the implant has only been approved in patients with ocular hypertension or POAG. The implant cannot be used in patients with eye infections, corneal endothelial cell diseases, and corneal transplants. It is also contraindicated in patients with a ruptured posterior lens capsule.
What are the side effects?
One in three patients complained of red eyes. About one in ten reported foreign body sensation, eye pain, light sensitivity, hemorrhage in the eye. In fact, some patients also complain of dry eye, irritation, blurred vision, and headaches. More information about the new bimatoprost implant is available online.
