Class of glaucoma drugs to enhance aqueous humor outflow and lower intra-ocular pressure

Abstract

Elevated intra-ocular pressure is reduced by administration directly to the eye of compounds that activate the Cl and K channels of the trabecular meshwork and/or Schlemm's canal endothelial cells of the mammalian eyes. Intra-ocular pressure may further be reduced by the co-administration of compounds that inhibit function of a Na+—K+—2Cl− co-transporter mechanism of the trabecular meshwork and/or Schlemm's canal endothelial cells. These compounds are useful in treatment of diseases of the eye associated with elevated intra-ocular pressure, such as ocular hypertension and glaucoma. A screening method is provided to discover additional compounds with utility for lowering intra-ocular pressure by substantially activating the Cl and K channels.

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