We’re excited here at Ophthalmic Consultants of the Capital Region. We have two new glaucoma treatments available for our patients with glaucoma…Rhopressa™ and Xen® Gel Stent.

Rhopressa™

For the first time in decades, there is a new class of glaucoma medication available—Rhopressa™ (netarsudil ophthalmic solution), was approved in December 2017.

Here are the facts on Rhopressa:

• Rhopressa is a rho-associated protein kinase inhibitor (ROCK inhibitor).
• Rhopressa lowers IOP by improving outflow through the eye’s natural drainage system, the trabecular meshwork.
• Rhopressa’s safety profile was established in clinical trials enrolling a total of 800 patients.
• Rhopressa’s advantages include once daily administration, which simplifies use for patients.

Although glaucoma isn’t curable, it can be treated. If caught early and with the right treatment, vision loss can be minimized.

It’s important to get a comprehensive dilated eye exam to test for glaucoma annually. If you do have glaucoma, be sure to see a glaucoma specialist regularly to ensure eye pressure isn’t elevated.

If you would like to learn more about Rhopressa give us a call. We can schedule an appointment for you and discuss a glaucoma treatment plan that’s right for you.

XEN® Gel Stent

Many people who have glaucoma can control the pressure by using special drops. However, if drops are no longer working, in my patients I’ve implanted the XEN® (pronounced Zen) Gel Stent. Manufactured by Allergan, Xen is designed to lower high eye pressure in patients with moderate and severe glaucoma.

The XEN Gel Stent insertion is an outpatient procedure. Unlike the older trabeculectomy procedure, there is no cutting or suturing of tissues. The recovery period is less intense and shorter, and complications occur less often and are less severe when they do occur.

During the procedure, one end of the stent is placed inside the eye and the other end of the stent is placed just under the conjunctiva, which is the clear membrane that covers the white of your eye. The XEN Gel Stent lowers the fluid pressure inside the eye, helping to prevent vision loss from damage to the optic nerve.

It is important to note that glaucoma cannot be cured. With early detection and proper treatment, vision can be preserved. The Xen Gel Stent procedure is an important advancement in the surgical treatment of glaucoma.

If your glaucoma drops are no longer managing the pressure in your eyes, it’s important to act fast and discuss your options with a glaucoma specialist. Be sure to schedule an appointment immediately.

To make an appointment with our Glaucoma Specialist, give us a call.