Medical and socio-economic aspects of long term therapy of open angle glaucoma.

ABSTRACT

Hundred patients of open angle glaucoma (OAG) who were on any one of the three drugs pilocarpine, timolol and epinephrine--for an average period of 3.3 years were chosen. Proforma regarding socio-economic status and the patients' reaction to long-term medication were recorded. Though the objective and subjective effects of long term medication were negligible the financial constraints were considerable. More than 70% patient would prefer laser's and surgery because of the cumbersome schedule and financial burden. The visit to the clinic was a time consuming process suggesting a lack of adequate glaucoma follow-up at the peripheral level. The study reflects a need for reorientation of glaucoma management.