Comparison of Corneal Safety and Intraocular Pressure–Lowering Effect of Tafluprost Ophthalmic Solution with Other Prostaglandin Ophthalmic Solutions

Abstract Purpose: The benzalkonium chloride (BAK) content of tafluprost ophthalmic solution (Tapros®: tafluprost) has been reduced to balance corneal safety and preservative effectiveness (old formulation: 0.01%; new formulation: 0.001%). However, no reports have been published on its clinical effect. Therefore, we conducted a clinical research study to compare the safety of BAK-reduced tafluprost on the ocular surface with other prostaglandin ophthalmic solutions. Methods: This clinical study included 28 glaucoma patients (28 eyes) with a treatment history of latanoprost ophthalmic solution (Xalatan®) or travoprost ophthalmic solution (Travatan Z®), who presented with corneal epithelial disorders. The subjects were switched to BAK-reduced tafluprost, and its effect on the ocular surface was examined after 1 and 2 months of treatment [using fluorescein staining score, hyperemia, tear film breakup time, and intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering]. Results: In all analyzed subjects (N=27), the fluorescein stai...