EFFECT OF INHALED TIOTROPIUM ON INTRAOCULAR PRESSURE IN PATIENTS OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE

Introduction: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality with increasing prevalence worldwide. Tiotropium bromide a long acting antimuscarinic agent used in management. In the eye it causes pupil dilation, leading to closure of anterior chamber angles, consequently leading to increased intra ocular pressure. Objectives: To study the effect of inhaled tiotropium on intraocular pressure in patients of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Methods: This is a prospective observational study done over a period of one year on 100 patients of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease using tiotropium inhaler and fulfilling the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Clinical details and other essential information had been collected using a proforma that was filled by the investigator. During study period tiotropium is administered at a dose of 18mcg/day. The Schiotz tonometer is used to assess intraocular pressure at baseline, at the end of 1 month and 3 month follow up period. The results were organized and analyzed statistically. Results: A total of 100 patients recruited for study which included 88 males and 12 females. Intra ocular pressure (IOP) of both eyes were compared in our study using Schiotz tonometer at baseline, one month and at end of follow up period of three months. We found a statistically significant difference in mean IOP by paired t-test at baseline and 3rd month, one month as well as three months, but changes in IOP was not significant between baseline and one month. Conclusion: We found a statistically significant difference in mean IOP by paired t-test at baseline and third month.