Expert opinion on netarsudil for the management of glaucoma in Indian settings

Abstract

Background: Despite topical treatments for glaucoma are generally successful and well tolerated, there is a need for newer drugs to manage patients who are unable to tolerate previous topical treatments due to adverse effects or those who experience side effects or insufficient reduction in IOP with current medical treatments. Objective: The study was intended to gather diverse perspectives of experts on the use of netarsudil for the management of glaucoma. Methodology: This cross-sectional study examined the opinions of specialists from different parts of India about the usage of netarsudil for patients with glaucoma. Twenty-one questions in the survey aimed to elicit thoughts from specialists on whether they would advise netarsudil for glaucoma management. Results:The survey assessed the preferences of experts on prescribing netarsudil for glaucoma management. Out of 42 respondents, 57.14% indicated that glaucoma frequently affects individuals beyond the age of 50. The most commonly used method of diagnosing glaucoma was using a slit lamp examination and tonometer. The results demonstrate that 33.33% of respondents used travoprost and bimatoprost equally among prostaglandin analogues. Netarsudil was usually recommended for patients who were unable to control their symptoms with combination therapy, according to 47.61% of study participants. It was also suggested for individuals whose illnesses cannot be treated with prostaglandin analogues, according to about 14.28% of survey participants. Adding netarsudil can lower intraocular pressure (IOP) and delay the need for glaucoma laser or incisional surgery. According to a significant portion of respondents (30.95%), netarsudil can be prescribed for all patient with uncontrolled prostaglandin analogues, uncontrolled combination therapy, add-on therapy, or who needs surgery. Conclusion:The findings contribute to the knowledge base surrounding the use of netarsudil in clinical practice, providing insights into its potential role as a valuable therapeutic option for glaucoma patients.