Evaluation of the Xal-Ease latanoprost delivery system.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to compare drops of latanoprost dispensed using the Xal-Ease (Pfizer Ophthalmics, New York, New York) delivery system with drops dispensed manually.

Methods: Twenty-four 2.5-mL bottles of Xalatan (Pfizer Ophthalmics) were evaluated with or without the delivery system. Individually dispensed drops were counted. The total volume dispensed was measured to the nearest 10 microL. Statistical analysis compared group means by analysis of variance. P values less than 0.05 were considered significant.

Results: The overall mean volume was 2,850 microL. Overall mean drops per bottle (n = 24) were 90.3 +/- 6.3. Using the Xal-Ease, mean drops per bottle were 93.0 +/- 3.4 and without it, 87.7 +/- 7.5 (n = 12 each).

Conclusions: With Xal-Ease, mean drops per bottle (5) were statistically significantly greater when compared with standard dispensing (P = 0.0393). This result is accounted for by more consistent individual drop volume and greater volume using the delivery system.