<b>Effectiveness of Kampo Medicine in Patients with </b><b>Primary Open Angle Glaucoma</b> / 日本東洋医学雑誌

ABSTRACT

[<b>Objective</b>] To determine the long-term effect of Kampo medicine on patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).<br>[<b>Patients</b>] Patient 1 was a 17-year-old male with POAG at his initial visit, having been treated using Kampo for 34 years. Patient 2 was a 56-year-old female, diagnosed with POAG 30 years before visiting our clinic, who had continued Kampo treatment for 19 years. At their first visit, these two patients had a very high risk of becoming blind, but, after long-term treatment using Kampo, their visual function was maintained and their intraocular pressure was well controlled. Patient 3 was a 23-year-old female at her initial visit, who we have been following for 27 years. During this period, her intraocular pressure returned to normal while she was taking Kampo medicine regularly, and conversely elevated when she stopped.<br>[<b>Discussion</b>] We cannot indicate the specific Kampo prescription which reduces intraocular pressure, but Kampo medicines prescribed according to the usual pattern identifications may be able to improve the intraocular pressure in the presence of POAG. In addition, Kampo medicine may be effective in maintaining the visual function of POAG patients.<br>[<b>Conclusion</b>] Kampo medicine may reduce intraocular pressure, and be effective as an add-on therapy when combined with standard treatment in patients with POAG.