Use of antioxidants as adjuvants in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma: a literature review

Abstract

Background: Glaucoma is an irreversible, progressive, irreversible optic neuropathy, which involves a treatment challenge of preventing nerve fiber loss. Treatment is focused on controlling intraocular pressure to reduce and limit optic nerve damage; however, the use of antioxidant supplements as coadjuvant therapy may improve the evolution of the condition. Objective: To identify the effectiveness of the use of antioxidants as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of primary open angle glaucoma. Methods: In this literature review, the use of antioxidants in the treatment of primary open angle glaucoma was investigated. A search was conducted in several scientific platforms to identify relevant studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of this treatment. Conclusions: Adjuvant therapy in the treatment of primary open angle glaucoma is focused on reducing or avoiding the damage caused by oxidative stress in the cells and DNA of the trabecular meshwork, improving the evolution of the disease, Some of the antioxidant supplements used in clinical practice as adjuvant treatment of primary open angle glaucoma are: vitamin A, C and E, polyphenols, mexidol, R lipoic acid, among others and have provided a remarkable improvement in the evolution of patients.