Effects of 4% pilocarpine gel on normotensive and glaucomatous canine eyes

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Abstract
SUMMARY: A 4% pilocarpine gel applied topically to eyes was evaluated in glaucomatous Beagles and normotensive Miniature Schnauzers to determine its efficacy in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and to assess any side effects. Pilocarpine gel significantly (P < 0.05) reduced IOP for 24 hours after treatment, compared with baseline (predrug) values, untreated fellow eyes, and placebo-treated eyes. The IOP remained significantly lower (P < 0.05) during 3 treatment days, as well as the first 2 days after treatment. The pupil sizes were significantly smaller (P < 0.01) in all treated dogs after the first administration of pilocarpine, compared with baseline values, untreated eyes, and placebo-treated eyes. The subsequent pilocarpine gel administrations induced significant miosis (P < 0.01), compared with baseline values, but the extent of miosis and duration were significantly less (P < 0.01) as the number of treatments increased. Conjunctival irritation and blepharospasm were observed mainly in the first 2 days of treatment and were minimal after subsequent applications. There was no contralateral effect on IOP or pupil size, compared with baseline values and placebo-treated eyes.

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