Study Finds Most Glaucoma Patients Unaware of Preservative-Free Treatment Options

The Preservative Freedom Coalition announced the results of a new nationwide survey delving into the experience of glaucoma patients to identify opportunities for improved communication with their eye care providers. This comes as Monday kicked off World Glaucoma Week, during which the Preservative Freedom Coalition is encouraging greater discussion around preservative-free options for patients. 

The survey included 558 people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension across the United States. Specifically, patients were asked their perspectives about preservatives and their eye health. A key finding was that 61% of respondents said they were unaware that preservative-free alternative treatment options existed for their disease. 

“The most surprising revelation from the Preservative Freedom Glaucoma Patient Experience Survey was that the majority of patients with glaucoma were not aware of their preservative-free options, despite their availability on the market,” Elena Sturman, Presidents and CEO of The Glaucoma Foundation and founding member of the Preservative Freedom Coalition said in a recent press release. “This is crucial because it reinforces the importance of having these conversations with patients and empowering them to take control of their ocular health, potentially mitigating side effects." 

The use of preservatives in eye drops have been linked to various inflammatory reactions on the eye surface, particularly in glaucoma patients. Prolonged use of these eye drops can lead to chronic irritation or ultimate damage. 

Additional study highlights include:

• Only 1 in 5 respondents state they are satisfied with their current treatment
• Approximately 33% reported stopping, skipping, or requesting a change in medication due to undesirable impacts or negative effects. A common symptom is gritty eyes (62%), which can be associated with the use of preservatives. 
• Respondents reported concerns about preservative toxicity (60%) and its relationship to disease progression (39%), identifying a potential discussion point for eye care providers. 

The study contributors agree that the biggest takeaway is the importance of communication in eye care and the role providers have in educating patients about their treatment options. 

“As medical professionals, we are the caretakers of eye health, and we have the responsibility to preserve and protect our patients’ vision,” said Jacob Lang, OD, Medical Director for Dry Eye Services at Associated Eye Care, President of the Intrepid Eye Society, and founding member of the Preservative Freedom Coalition. “By integrating preservative-free treatments, we advance patient care, help reduce preservative-related side effects, and support long-lasting eye health.”