Latanoprost and respiratory function in asthmatic patients: randomized, double-masked, placebo-controlled crossover evaluation.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of single and multiple administrations of the ocular hypotensive drug latanoprost on respiratory function, asthma symptoms, and use of asthma medication in patients with bronchial asthma. METHODS Twenty-four stable patients with asthma (forced expiratory volume in 1 second: 70% to 90% of predicted and a minimum of 10% reversibility after inhalation of albuterol sulfate) with no previous exposure to inhaled corticosteroids participated in this randomized, double-masked crossover trial. Patients received latanoprost, 0.005%, or placebo, 1 drop per day, in each eye during two 6-day treatment periods separated by a 2-week washout period. Acute latanoprost or placebo provocation, methacholine chloride airway reactivity, and 12-stimulator reversibility tests were performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Morning and evening peak expiratory flow, spirometric performance throughout treatment periods and during different provocation tests, asthma symptoms, and use of asthma medications were evaluated. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences between treatments in morning and evening peak expiratory flow, scored daytime and nocturnal asthma symptoms, or daily consumption of asthma medication. During placebo provocation, there was a small increase in forced expiratory volume in 1 second that was not seen during latanoprost provocation. This small difference (-0.09 L) was statistically significant but without clinical importance. CONCLUSIONS Resting and provoked airway function and asthma symptoms were unaffected by latanoprost treatment in patients with asthma with no previous exposure to corticosteroids. Latanoprost can be used in patients with glaucoma and concomitant bronchial asthma.