Preservative-Free Eye Drops For Glaucoma - Glaucoma Research Foundation

ALL ARTICLES Glaucoma medications that are free of preservatives may significantly reduce symptoms of ocular surface disease for some patients. Glaucoma is a chronic disease that causes irreversible vision loss, requiring long-term care and treatment. Eyedrop medications are often used to treat glaucoma and approximately 50% of patients use more than one glaucoma drop.Prolonged use of these medications can cause significant ocular surface disease (OSD), including dry eye syndrome in some patients.The inactive ingredients in the eyedrops (specifically, the preservative), as well as the active ingredient (that lowers eye pressure) have both been associated with OSD.While most patients tolerate one or two eyedrop medications well, the side effects of preservatives can be additive, especially when patients are using more than two different glaucoma drops. Why are preservatives added to glaucoma drops? The addition of preservatives prevents bacterial contamination and is a requirement by re...