Drugs & aging
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Glaucoma comprises age-related neurodegenerative diseases of retinal ganglion cells, the worldwide prevalence of which is increasing. Local pharmacotherapy is the primary treatment option, especially in the elderly. But this therapeutic approach may include risks for adverse drug effects and drug-drug interactions, of particular importance in frail nursing home resident populations. ⋯ Anti-glaucoma pharmacotherapy in nursing home residents is frequently prescribed in the context of polypharmacy. This may modify the efficacy and safety of local and systemic therapies. Therefore, individualized pharmacotherapy that integrates anti-glaucoma drug therapy into the overall treatment rationale in nursing home residents is necessary. However, to realize this concept, further clinical research in nursing home residents is warranted.