1. Introduction
Glaucoma encompasses a heterogenous group of ocular diseases characterized by progressive optic neuropathy, resulting from the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and nerve fibre layers in the retina [
1,
2]. Although elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is neither required for diagnosis nor present in all patients with glaucoma, the first-line, evidence-based management for glaucoma typically involves IOP-lowering medications [
3]. Glaucoma can be classified into two major types: primary or secondary, which can be further subdivided into open-angle or closed-angle glaucoma [
4]. In 2013, an estimated 64.3 million people aged 40-80 years globally were affected with glaucoma, with a projection of 111.8 million by 2040 [
5]. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), the most common type of glaucoma, was estimated to affect 57.5 million people worldwide [
6].
Globally, glaucoma is the second leading cause of vision loss and irreversible blindness [
4]. Risk factors of glaucoma include demographic factors like age, gender, race, smoking, and genetics [
4]. Since glaucoma is an insidious disease that can be challenging to diagnosis, many patients are untreated until irreversible vision loss occurs [
4]. A meta-analysis found that undetected glaucoma was highly prevalent globally, with more than half of all cases went undetected on average prior to diagnosis in their respective study [
7].
Halting the progression of disease and maintaining vision as well as quality of life are key aspects for managing glaucoma. Multiple randomized control trials have demonstrated that lowering IOP slows down disease progression, and this practice has been a staple of clinical practice management for many years [
8]. Various classes of medications are used; each with a different mechanism of action for lowering IOP.
The standard of care for the targeted IOP reduction should be achieved with the fewest medications and minimum adverse effects [
3]. Yet, most IOP lowering medications often have undesirable adverse effects despite their effectiveness [
9]. These could range from ocular complications like dry eye, irritation, or infection, to more serious systemic events like organ failure, allergic reactions, or exacerbation of co-morbidities [
3,
9,
10]. Unbearable adverse effects, among other factors, is a significant threat to medical adherence, a long-standing challenge in glaucoma management. Uncontrolled glaucoma due to drop usage can subsequently lead to the development of new ocular issues, further complicating the management and deteriorating patients’ quality of life. Therefore, the goal of this review is to highlight and summarize all ocular and systemic adverse effects of glaucoma pharmacotherapy, with an emphasis on why they occur and how to minimize them. This review can serve as a guide for clinicians to best tailor management based on individual patients and ensure greater adherence and overall better patient outcome.
4. Discussion
In this review, we conducted a comprehensive examination of the ocular and systemic side effects associated with all major classes of glaucoma pharmacotherapy. Notably, several undesirable ocular effects are shared across different drug classes. Discomfort upon instillation, including symptoms such as stinging, burning, itching, tearing, and blurred vision, are frequently reported with all classes of glaucoma medications [
10,
16,
60,
61,
62,
63,
64,
65,
66,
76,
77,
78,
83,
89,
90,
91,
92,
93,
94,
95,
96,
97,
98]. Additionally, ocular allergic reactions, which may necessitate discontinuation in severe cases, commonly present as allergic conjunctivitis, granulomatous papillary conjunctivitis, or punctate keratopathy. These hypersensitivity reactions are particularly prevalent with brimonidine and β-blockers but are rarely associated with PGAs [
56,
68,
79,
80,
123]. Similarly, hyperemia due to vasodilation is observed across several drug classes, including PGAs, brimonidine, and Rho kinase inhibitors, although it is less common with CAIs [
57,
58,
59,
79,
80,
83,
127,
128]. Another notable side effect, miosis, often occurs in medications that target the iris dilator or pupillary sphincter, such as non-selective α agonists and parasympathomimetics [
86,
124,
125].
Beyond ocular effects, systemic side effects arise when glaucoma medications are absorbed into the systemic circulation, leading to off-target effects on other organ systems. Lipophilic drugs can cross the blood-brain barrier, resulting in neurological adverse effects such as depression, decreased libido, lethargy, and irritability. This is most frequently reported with β-blockers, α agonists, and direct-acting parasympathomimetics like pilocarpine and carbachol [
9,
61,
76,
77,
78,
159,
160,
161,
162,
164]. Furthermore, drugs that modulate the sympathetic or parasympathetic nervous systems, or affect blood osmolarity, may increase the risk of cardiovascular complications. These include β-blockers, non-selective adrenergic agents, parasympathomimetics, and hyperosmotic agents [
60,
61,
144,
145,
146,
147,
168,
169,
186,
187,
188,
189,
190,
191]. Consequently, such medications should be prescribed with caution in patients with underlying cardiovascular conditions. Respiratory complications may occur with β-blockers, parasympathomimetics, and, to a lesser extent, PGAs [
9,
148,
149,
150,
151,
152,
153,
154,
155,
179]. Gastrointestinal side effects, such as vomiting and diarrhea, are more common with parasympathomimetics, oral CAIs, and hyperosmotic [
9,
131,
186,
187,
188,
189,
190,
191].
The diverse side effect profiles of glaucoma medications are largely dictated by their specific mechanisms of action, formulations, preservatives, concentrations, and routes of administration. Among available options, topical PGAs, the first-line treatment, offer a favorable balance between efficacy, once-daily dosing, and safety [
41]. While PGAs are associated with minimal systemic side effects, they are known to cause several ocular side effects, including irreversible iris hyperpigmentation, peri-orbitopathy, reversible eyelash growth, and transient conjunctival hyperemia [
83,
89,
90,
91,
92,
93,
94,
95,
96,
97,
98]. PGAs are comparable to β-blockers for their efficacy in IOP reduction. However, beta-blockers are associated with a greater risk of systemic adverse reactions, which may also be life-threatening [
147]. Thus, while PGAs can safely be prescribed across a wide range of patient populations, the use of beta-blockers should be prescribed with caution in individuals with cardiovascular or respiratory comorbidities [
3]. For patients unable to tolerate long-term beta-blocker therapy, topical CAIs present a viable alternative [
3]. CAIs are known to produce minimal systemic side effects aside from transient bitter taste [
16,
54,
55,
139]. Oral CAIs, however, are reserved for acute glaucomatous attacks due to their significant side-effect profile [
9]. Alpha agonists hold a valuable place in both chronic (e.g., brimonidine) and acute (e.g., apraclonidine) glaucoma management; their side effects are mainly related to off-target stimulation of alpha agonist receptors and rebound hyperemia may occur after medication discontinuation [
79]. Notably, they tend to have the highest risk of ocular allergic reactions [
79,
80]. Next, side effects of parasympatomimetics, either direct or indirect, can be attributed to their off-target stimulation of non-ocular cholinergic receptors [
9]. Most prominent are neurological and cardiac symptoms described previously, but other parasympathetic responses like hypersalivation and neuromuscular effects like muscle weakness, fasciculations, and paralysis can also occur [
181]. These agents are rarely used in practice now. Finally, as one of the newest agents, rho kinase inhibitors have shown promising results in clinical trials [
3,
49,
50]. Most common ocular side effect patients should be aware of is conjunctival hyperemia [
127,
128]. So far, there are no known systemic side-effects related to topical rho kinase inhibitors. Finally, hyperosmotic agents should only be used in acute glaucoma attacks, and they present several systemic side effects related to volume depletion and electrolyte imbalance attributable to their hyperosmotic effects [
3,
51].
It is evident that side effects—whether mild or severe—can significantly impact medication adherence, patient quality of life, and overall treatment outcomes. Long-term compliance with glaucoma medications remains a challenge, with fewer than half of patients adhering to their prescribed therapy beyond one year [
193]. There are multiple factors that can influence patient compliance, with medication side-effects being one of the most predominant [
194,
195,
196,
197,
198]. Interestingly, some studies have shown that sensations such as stinging or burning may paradoxically improve adherence, as patients perceive them as indicators of drug activity. Hyperemia, however, was the most commonly reported side effect and it was consistently associated with reduced adherence and higher rates of discontinuation [
199].
Beyond compliance, side effects often contribute to a diminished quality of life, particularly in patients experiencing long-term use. For instance, in a survey by Nordmann et al., nearly two-thirds of patients reported at least one local side effect, with significant associations between medication side-effects and reduced vision-related quality of life, as well as treatment dissatisfaction [
200]. Similarly, Quaranta et al. also studied how adverse effects like hyperemia, blurred vision, and stinging/burning sensation can negatively interfere with patients’ environmental and social aspects of life, leading to greater patient dissatisfaction with therapy [
201]. When asked what aspects of their glaucoma management patients would be willing to pay extra for, patients wished for reduced side effects, such as eye drops that did not cause blurred vision, drowsiness, or stinging/tearing [
202]. Collectively, these factors could significantly impact the overall treatment outcome, leading to subsequent vision loss and permanent optic neuropathy [
194]. However, the subjective nature of non-compliance and diminished quality of life can make these issues difficult to assess in routine practice. Integrating patient-reported outcomes into clinical practice may offer a valuable approach to monitoring medication adherence, assessing quality of life, and identifying individualized barriers to effective treatment [
198].
Recognizing the importance of minimizing side effects in glaucoma management, ongoing research has focused on exploring novel drug classes and innovative treatment strategies that could enhance future therapeutic approaches. Notably, combination therapies involving PGAs have shown considerable promise. Recent trials have demonstrated that a combination of Netarsudil 0.02% and Latanoprost 0.005% provides greater and more sustained IOP reduction than either agent used alone [
203]. Similarly, Latanoprostene bunod, a fixed combination of latanoprost and a nitric oxide-donating moiety, has demonstrated superior IOP reduction compared to timolol 0.5%, alongside a favorable safety profile [
204,
205]. This combination exerts its therapeutic effects via dual mechanisms, acting on both prostaglandin receptors and nitric oxide synthase to enhance aqueous humor outflow and lower IOP [
206]. Through activation of guanylyl cyclase and cyclic guanosine monophosphate signaling pathway, nitric oxide causes relaxation of the cytoskeleton of the trabecular meshwork, increasing outflow and decreasing IOP. Through phase 1-3 trials, the most common side effects were associated with PGAs, such as conjunctival hyperemia (5.9-17.7%), eye lash growth (16.2%), and iris hyperpigmentation, with no known systemic adverse effects reported [
207,
208]. In addition to combination therapies, novel agents such as prostanoid receptor agonists (DE-117 and ONO-9054) targeting new pathways in prostaglandin signaling are being investigated [
209,
210,
211,
212]. If approved, these agents may become viable options for patients with uncontrolled IOP on prostaglandins. Based on existing clinical trial results, both agents have shown greater IOP reduction than latanoprost.
Finally, considerable interest has been dedicated to preservative-free formulations of glaucoma medications. Benzalkonium chloride (BAK), a preservative widely used in glaucoma medications, has been linked to significant ocular surface toxicity, including conjunctival hyperemia and superficial punctate keratitis [
123]. Preservative-free formulations, such as those of tafluprost and latanoprost, hold promise for reducing ocular surface irritation, particularly in patients with pre-existing ocular surface disease [
213]. However, further research is necessary to evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of these preservative-free alternatives, especially in formulations containing multiple active ingredients [
214,
215,
216].
5. Conclusions
This comprehensive review has outlined the major ocular and systemic side effects associated with all major pharmacotherapies used in glaucoma. Notable ocular side effects such as instillation discomfort, hyperemia, allergic conjunctivitis, and miosis are frequently encountered across multiple drug classes. Systemic side effects, though less common, warrant additional vigilance when using β-blockers and parasympathomimetics, as these may potentially lead to severe cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological complications in high-risk individuals. The burden of side-effects can significantly affect patient adherence to therapy, often resulting in suboptimal treatment outcomes, decreased quality of life, and ultimately contributing to the progression of glaucoma and permanent vision loss. PGAs, with their favorable balance of efficacy, convenience, and safety, remain the gold standard for first-line therapy, although they too come with their own set of unique ocular side-effects including permanent iris hyperpigmentation, eyelash growth, and peri-orbitopathy. Ultimately, the choice of glaucoma medication(s) should be tailored to each unique patient’s IOP requirements, past medical history, and preference to maximize efficacy and adherence while minimizing the risk of complications.
Future research efforts should prioritize the development of preservative-free agents, combination regimens, and novel agents or delivery systems. Advancements in drug design that limit systemic absorption, target specific ocular pathways, and mitigate local side effects have the potential to improve both adherence and patient outcomes. Combination therapies, such as those incorporating PGAs with novel agents like nitric oxide-donating compounds, offer promise for enhanced IOP control while reducing polypharmacy. Additionally, preservative-free formulations are crucial for minimizing ocular surface toxicity, especially in patients with pre-existing ocular surface disease. Patient management should also evolve to integrate routine assessments of adherence and quality of life through patient-reported outcomes. Such strategies will enable clinicians to tailor treatment to individual needs, enhancing long-term efficacy and satisfaction. With ongoing innovation and a deeper understanding of patient-specific factors, future glaucoma therapies hold the potential to be safer, more effective, and more widely tolerated, significantly alleviating the global burden of this vision-threatening disease.