Use of Mexidol in the Therapy of Primary Open-angle Glaucoma

Author:
I.A. LOSKUTOV, O.M. ANDRYUKHINA, A.A. KOVRIZHKINA

M.F. Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research Clinical Institute

Summary:
The article focuses on the complex therapy of primary open-angle glaucoma, namely the application and understanding of the principles of neuroprotection in the pathogenesis of the development of glaucomatosis optic neuropathy. Various biochemical reactions involved in the apoptosis of the retinal nerve fiber layer and in neurodegeneration processes are described. In Russian Federation, a reference antioxidant with a multimodal mechanism of action – Mexidol (ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate) has been registered and actively used actively used. Due to its unique complex molecule – the pyrimidine base and succinic acid derivative of compounds, Mexidol has high bioavailability and the ability to pass through the hematoencephalic barrier. The presence of succinate in the molecule also enhances the antioxidant effect, which is a fundamental difference between the drug and other antioxidant analogues presented on Russian pharmaceutical market. The mechanism of action of Mexidol is based on antioxidant, antihypoxant and membraneotropic effects. Given the wide range of action of this molecule, Mexidol acts on different links of oxidative stress, which is justifed in the complex treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma, in connection with which the drug is included in the standards of medical care in patients with glaucoma. The analysis of publications of the results of the study of ethylmethylhydroxypyridine succinate by various authors in primary open-angle glaucoma of stages I–III was carried out. A sequential scheme of therapy with Mexidol has been developed, with proven efficacy, slowing down neurodegeneration processes and stabilizing visual functions in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

Key words: glaucoma, Mexidol, antioxidant, neuroprotection, oxidative stress.