Demographic and clinical factors associated with brimonidine-induced ocular allergy

PURPOSE. Ocular allergy induced by brimonidine tartrate 0.2% is a common adverse event that is associated with poor compliance and therefore treatment failure. The authors investigated the demographic and clinical characteristics associated with development of this allergy. METHODS. In total, 133 patients with ocular hypertension or open angle glaucoma and treated with brimonidine tartrate 0.2% were retrospectively divided into two groups: allergic and nonallergic to brimonidine tartrate 0.2%. Demographic, local, and systemic ocular variables were compared in the two groups. RESULTS. Altogether, 13.5% of patients (18 of 133) developed brimonidine ocular allergy, generally within 2 weeks of beginning treatment (mean time 14.8±17.9 days). Compared with the nonallergic group, the allergic group was significantly more likely to have a history of ocular allergy to eyedrops (p=0.048) and to topical beta blockers (p=0.019). Moreover, the allergic group showed decreased tear film production (p=0.044). CONCLUSIONS. Patients with a history of eyedrop allergy or with reduced tear film production are more likely to develop brimonidine-associated allergy. Brimonidine may therefore not be suitable for patients with a history of allergy. © Wichtig Editore, 2007.