What are prostaglandins most effective at treating?

Prostaglandins are a class of medications that are particularly effective in treating open-angle glaucoma. They work by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor from the eye, which helps to lower intraocular pressure. This mechanism is especially beneficial in open-angle glaucoma, where the aqueous humor can drain through the trabecular meshwork but does so at a reduced rate, leading to increased eye pressure and potential optic nerve damage.

In open-angle glaucoma, prostaglandins are often the first-line treatment due to their efficacy and once-daily dosing, which enhances patient compliance. The ability of these medications to both decrease intraocular pressure effectively and maintain stable levels makes them a preferred option in managing this condition.

Though prostaglandins are utilized in the treatment of other kinds of glaucoma, their primary effectiveness and widespread acceptance as a first-line therapy are specifically recognized in cases of open-angle glaucoma.