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Surv OphthalmolMarch 200437 citations

Update on the mechanism of action of bimatoprost: a review and discussion of new evidence.

Krauss Achim H-P, Woodward David F


AI Summary

Bimatoprost's glaucoma mechanism involves mimicking prostamides via anandamide/COX-2, acting as a prodrug, or direct FP receptor stimulation, with ongoing research clarifying these hypotheses.

Abstract

Bimatoprost is a pharmacologically unique and highly efficacious anti-glaucoma agent. It appears to mimic the activity of the prostamides, which are biosynthesized from the natural endocannabinoid anandamide by the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2). Bimatoprost has also been suggested to lower intraocular pressure by behaving as a prodrug or, alternatively, by stimulating FP receptors directly. These three distinctly different hypotheses for the mechanism of bimatoprost activity are discussed in the light of current evidence.


MeSH Terms

AmidesAntihypertensive AgentsBimatoprostCloprostenolGlaucomaHumansIntraocular PressureLipidsProdrugsReceptors, Prostaglandin

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