Physician Attitudes regarding Prostaglandin Treatment for Glaucoma in the United States and Europe

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate physician use of prostaglandins (latanoprost, travoprost, and bimatoprost) in the United States (US) and Europe (EU). Methods One thousand multiple-choice surveys were distributed via e-mail in the US and EU. Results The authors received 71 responses (US 40 [8%] and EU 31 [6%]). Physicians preferred prostaglandin monotherapy (US 39 [98%] and EU 22 [71%], p=0.003), usually latanoprost (US 32 [80%] and EU 22 [71%], p=0.45). When more efficacy was required, US physicians would typically switch (23 [58%]) and EU physicians would add therapy (22 [71%], p=0.007). In both continents 45% of respondents stated bimatoprost was more efficacious. Conclusions US and EU physicians prefer prostaglandin monotherapy, most commonly latanoprost. Bimatoprost is often perceived as more effective, but having a higher incidence of conjunctival hyperemia.