| abstract |
Methods and compositions for controlling ocular hypertension associated with (i) primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), (ii) other forms of glaucoma, or (iii) glucocorticoid therapy are disclosed. The methods involve administration of angiostatic agents and other IOP-lowering agents via local injections in the anterior segment of the eye. The most preferred IOP-lowering agents are angiostatic steroids, particularly anecortave acetate, and the most preferred route of administration is an anterior juxtascleral injection or implant. The invention is based in part on the discovery that anterior juxtascleral injections of anecortave acetate are capable of controlling intraocular pressure for sustained periods of from one to several months or more. This result is believed to be attributable to facilitation of access of the anecortave acetate to the trabecular meshwork via the anterior juxtascleral route of administration. This route of administration is also believed to be advantageous for other types of IOP-lowering agents, particularly molecules that cannot readily penetrate the cornea due to size or other physical properties. |