Efficacy, safety, and current applications of brimonidine.

Background: The use of brimonidine to lower intraocular pressure has been the subject of considerable investigation. Variations of the initially approved drug including agents of a lower concentration (Alphagan P 0.15 and 0.1%, Allergan, Inc., Irvine, CA, USA) and a fixed-combination mating brimonidine with timolol (Combigan, Allergan) evolved the marketing and application of this therapy.

Objective: We review available evidence regarding the efficacy and side effect profile of brimonidine as well as its role in glaucoma management.

Results/conclusion: Brimonidine is an important component of topical glaucoma treatment that is most limited by local ocular intolerance.