A novel perspective on natural therapeutic approaches in glaucoma therapy

Authors: Mozaffarieh, Maneli; Flammer, Josef

Source: Expert Opinion on Emerging Drugs, Volume 12, Number 2, May 2007 , pp. 195-198(4)

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Abstract:

Glaucoma is becoming recognised as a condition for which not only elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), but also non-pressure-dependent risk factors, are responsible. Better knowledge of the pathogenesis has opened up new thera-peutic approaches that are often referred to as non-IOP-lowering treatment. These new avenues of treatment, some of which are still under investigation, include agents that can improve vascular regulation and blood flow to the eye and reduce oxidative stress. Vascular regulation can be improved systemically with magnesium. Dark chocolate and omega-3-fatty acids can also improve blood flow regulation. Oxidative stress at mitochondrial level can be reduced by gingko. Polyphenolic flavonoids (tea, coffee and red wine), anthocyanosides, ubiquinone and melatonin have antioxidant properties, and heat-shock proteins can be induced naturally by the use of sauna baths. Future intensive studies on the effect of these compounds may open up a new therapeutic era in glaucoma.

Keywords: Ginkgo biloba; glaucoma; intraocular pressure; omega-3-fatty acid

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1517/14728214.12.2.195

Affiliations: 1: University Eye Clinic Basel, Mittlere Strasse 91, PO Box, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland +41 61 2658633; +41 612658652;, Email: j.flammer@uhbs.ch

Publication date: 2007-05-01

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