Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a new alternative to anti-glaucoma medications for the treatment of primary open angle glaucoma. After SLT, many patients experience mild to moderate inflammation inside the eye - specifically in the front chamber of the eye (the part in front of the colored part of the eye). This mild front chamber reaction is typically treated with anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (NSAIDs). Some physicians do not use these agents as they feel they may interfere with the way the laser works to treat glaucoma. Topical (applied to the surface) corticosteroids can cause an increase in the pressure of the eye (intraocular pressure or IOP), cataract formation, or a possible increase in infection with long-term use. These side effects have not been reported to occur with NSAIDs, which are effective in controlling pain after SLT and reducing signs of inflammation such as irritation, swelling, tenderness, and soreness.
This research study will compare an NSAID, ketorolac tromethamine 0.4% (Acular LS), with a corticosteroid, prednisolone acetate 1% (Pred Forte), and with a placebo, which contains no active medicine (Refresh Tears). Ketorolac tromethamine 0.4%, prednisolone acetate 1%, and Refresh Tears are all FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approved for use in inflammation after surgery.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 95 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Patients diagnosed with open angle glaucoma at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Glaucoma Clinic.
* Able to provide written informed consent to participate.
* Must be between the ages of 18 - 95.
* Patients in which further IOP lowering by SLT is necessary in the opinion of the treating physician.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Patients with eye surgery in the prior six months.
* Patients with prior or current use of topical or systemic corticosteroids or NSAIDs.
* Patients with pre-existing anterior chamber inflammation.
* Patients with known sensitivity to any of the study medications.
* Due to the age range and the disease entity, special patient populations such as children or pregnant women will not be enrolled in this study.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.