CERA’s Clinical Trials Coordinator, Jessica Brennan, said the two-year trial will compare the safety, effectiveness, quality of life and cost effectiveness of laser and topical medication (eye drops) treatments.
“While eye drops are currently considered the standard initial treatment for glaucoma, laser is increasingly being used as an initial therapy in Australia,” said Ms Brennan.
“Drops are effective, but can have some side effects including irritation and redness occurring in the eyes, eyelashes and lids. They can also be costly and are not suitable for everyone. Another major problem with drops is that people can stop taking them because they irritate, but don’t realise their glaucoma is worsening in the meantime.”
…laser is increasingly being used as an initial therapy in Australia
The trial will focus on 400 Australia-wide patients over 35 years old diagnosed with glaucoma but not yet treated. 200 will be randomised to receive eye drops, and 200 to receive laser. Patients will be seen at six monthly intervals for a period of two years.
The Principal Investigator of this National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) funded project is Associate Professor Ecosse Lamoureux.
For detaills contact Jessica Brennan at (03) 9929 8075 or email [email protected]
