Effect of topical betaxolol on acute rise of aqueous flare induced by prostaglandin E(2) in pigmented rabbits.

PURPOSE To evaluate the effects of topical betaxolol on experimental ocular inflammation. METHODS Transcorneal diffusion of 25 microg/mL (7.09 x 10(-2) mmol/L) of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), placed in a glass cylinder, was employed to induce aqueous flare elevation in pigmented rabbits. Betaxolol was administered topically before PGE(2) application. Aqueous flare was measured with a laser flare cell meter. RESULTS Four-, two-, and one-time topical instillations of betaxolol inhibited the PGE(2)-induced aqueous flare elevation by 44% +/- 8%, 32 +/- 7%, and 8 +/- 6%(mean +/- SD), respectively. The inhibition of flare elevation was dependent on the number of betaxolol instillations. CONCLUSION Topical betaxolol has an inhibitory effect on PGE(2)-induced aqueous flare elevation in rabbit eyes.