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The British Journal of Ophthalmology Jan 2008To systematically review the literature on the efficacy and harm of prostaglandin analogues (PGAs) compared to brimonidine and dorzolamide in treating elevated... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
AIM
To systematically review the literature on the efficacy and harm of prostaglandin analogues (PGAs) compared to brimonidine and dorzolamide in treating elevated intraocular pressure (IOP).
METHODS
Keywords were searched in major literature databases to identify relevant randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of PGAs for ophthalmic use. The study quality of RCTs was assessed using the Jadad scale. Outcomes assessed included reduction in IOP in individual patients, adverse events (AEs) and withdrawals due to AEs.
RESULTS
Eight unique RCTs evaluating a total of 1,722 individuals were included in this systematic review. Analysis did not show a significant reduction in the mean IOP from patients receiving latanoprost compared with those receiving brimonidine (WMD = -1.04; p = 0.30). On the other hand, the latanoprost group showed a significant reduction in mean IOP compared to the dorzolamide group (WMD = -2.64; p<0.00001). The number of ocular AEs (excluding hyperaemia) was significantly higher in the brimonidine group compared with the latanoprost group (RR = 0.66; p = 0.0005).
CONCLUSION
Latanoprost was found to be significantly superior to dorzolamide but not brimonidine. However, ocular adverse events were significantly fewer in latanoprost users than in brimonide users. Neither travoprost nor bimatoprost was compared to dorzolamide or brimonidine in the present literature.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Antihypertensive Agents; Brimonidine Tartrate; Female; Glaucoma; Humans; Latanoprost; Male; Middle Aged; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Prostaglandins, Synthetic; Quinoxalines; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Sulfonamides; Thiophenes; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 18156371
DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2007.123737 -
The British Journal of Ophthalmology Jan 2007To compare the efficacy and tolerability of latanoprost versus brimonidine in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension or normal-tension glaucoma. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials comparing latanoprost with brimonidine in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension or normal-tension glaucoma.
AIM
To compare the efficacy and tolerability of latanoprost versus brimonidine in the treatment of open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension or normal-tension glaucoma.
METHOD
Systematic review of randomised controlled trials comparing latanoprost and brimondine, identified by searches including Medline, Embase and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register. Two reviewers independently assessed trials for eligibility and quality and extracted data. Data were synthesised (random effects model) and expressed as the absolute mean intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction difference from baseline to end point for efficacy and relative risk for adverse events. Subgroup analysis and regression were used to explore heterogeneity according to patient characteristics, trial design and quality.
RESULTS
15 publications reporting on 14 trials (1784 participants) were included for meta-analysis. IOP reduction favoured latanoprost (weighted mean difference (WMD) = 1.10 mm Hg (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57 to 1.63)). Significant heterogeneity was present (chi(2)(13) = 38.29, p = 0.001, I(2) = 66.0%). Subgroup analysis showed greater WMD for studies where data were analysed from end points >6 months duration, cross-over design, open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension and monotherapy. Multiple regression showed no significant association of WMD with trial duration (t(9) = 1.92, p = 0.09), trial design (t(9) = 1.79, p = 0.11), trial quality (t(9) = -0.46, p = 0.66), or monotherapy or adjunctive therapy (t(9) = -2.14, p = 0.06). Fatigue was less commonly associated with latanoprost (RR = 0.27, 95% CI 0.08 to 0.88). Publication bias was not evident on visual inspection of a funnel plot.
CONCLUSION
Latanoprost is more effective than brimonidine as monotherapy in lowering IOP. Brimonidine is associated with a higher rate of fatigue.
Topics: Administration, Topical; Aged; Antihypertensive Agents; Brimonidine Tartrate; Female; Glaucoma; Glaucoma, Open-Angle; Humans; Latanoprost; Male; Middle Aged; Ocular Hypertension; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Quinoxalines; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 16956912
DOI: 10.1136/bjo.2006.096693 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2003Prostaglandins have been used for induction of labour since the 1960s. Initial work focused on prostaglandin F2a as prostaglandin E2 was considered unsuitable for a... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Prostaglandins have been used for induction of labour since the 1960s. Initial work focused on prostaglandin F2a as prostaglandin E2 was considered unsuitable for a number of reasons. With the development of alternative routes of administration, comparisons were made between various formulations of vaginal prostaglandins. This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effects of vaginal prostaglandins E2 and F2a for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour in comparison with placebo/no treatment or other vaginal prostaglandins (except misoprostol).
SEARCH STRATEGY
The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register (May 2003) and bibliographies of relevant papers.
SELECTION CRITERIA
Clinical trials comparing vaginal prostaglandins used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with placebo/no treatment or other methods listed above it on a predefined list of labour induction methods.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A strategy was developed to deal with the large volume and complexity of trial data relating to labour induction. This involved a two-stage method of data extraction.
MAIN RESULTS
In total, 101 studies were considered: 43 excluded and 57 (10,039 women) included. One study is awaiting assessment. Vaginal prostaglandin E2 compared with placebo or no treatment reduced the likelihood of vaginal delivery not being achieved within 24 hours (18% versus 99%, relative risk (RR) 0.19, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.14 to 0.25, 2 trials, 384 women), there was no evidence of a difference between caesarean section rates although the risk of uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate changes was increased (4.6% versus 0.51%, RR 4.14, 95% CI 1.93 to 8.90, 13 trials, 1203 women). Comparison of vaginal prostaglandin F2a with placebo showed similar caesarean section rates but the cervical score was more likely to be improved (15% versus 60%, RR 0.25, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.49, 5 trials, 467 women), and the risk of oxytocin augmentation reduced (53.9% versus 89.1%, RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.43 to 0.84, 11 trials, 1265 women) with the use of vaginal PGF2a. There were insufficient data to make meaningful conclusions for the comparison of vaginal PGE2 and PGF2a.PGE2 tablet, gel and pessary appear to be as efficacious as each other. Lower dose regimens, as defined in the review, appear as efficacious as higher dose regimens.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
The primary aim of this review was to examine the efficacy of vaginal prostaglandin E2 and F2a. This is reflected by an increase in successful vaginal delivery rates in 24 hours, no increase in operative delivery rates and significant improvements in cervical favourability within 24 to 48 hours. Further research is needed to quantify the cost-analysis of induction of labour with vaginal prostaglandins, with special attention to different methods of administration.
Topics: Administration, Intravaginal; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Humans; Labor, Induced; Oxytocics; Pregnancy
PubMed: 14583960
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003101 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2003Normal tension glaucoma is a clinical condition in which the optic nerve is pathologically excavated and the visual field is disturbed. Nevertheless it has been assumed... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Normal tension glaucoma is a clinical condition in which the optic nerve is pathologically excavated and the visual field is disturbed. Nevertheless it has been assumed that intraocular pressure plays a role in the progression of visual field defects in this disease, but other, mainly vascular factors, have been discussed as well.
OBJECTIVES
The objective of this review is to assess the effects of medical and surgical treatments for normal tension glaucoma.
SEARCH STRATEGY
Trials were identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Group trials register), MEDLINE, EMBASE and BIOSIS Previews. Bibliographies of identified trials were searched to find additional trials. In addition, investigators and pharmaceutical companies were contacted. Date of last search: January 2001.
SELECTION CRITERIA
This review includes randomised controlled trials in which medical or surgical interventions were compared to no treatment, placebo or other treatment in people with normal tension glaucoma. Two reviewers independently assessed the full text copies of the possibly relevant trials. Trial quality was assessed according to the methods set out in Section 6 of the Cochrane Reviewers' Handbook (Clarke 2000).
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
Data were extracted by two reviewers and results were compared for differences. Discrepancies were resolved by discussion. The heterogeneity of interventions, follow-up periods and outcomes did not allow for statistical combinations of the study results.
MAIN RESULTS
According to the selection criteria on visual field loss, eight studies were included in this review. Only three studies focussed on patient relevant outcomes. In one trial a beneficial effect of lowering intraocular pressure was found, but only if data were corrected for cataract development. In two small studies a beneficial effect on visual field loss of brovincamine, a calcium antagonist was reported.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
In one study the effect of intraocular pressure lowering on visual field outcome was only significant when data were corrected for cataract development. The results for calcium antagonists are promising, but larger trials have to be performed. Studies that focussed on reduction of intraocular pressure or haemodynamic variables are not necessarily relevant for the outcome in people with normal tension glaucoma.
Topics: Antihypertensive Agents; Glaucoma; Humans; Intraocular Pressure; Latanoprost; Prostaglandins F, Synthetic; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Sulfonamides; Thiophenes; Timolol; Vincamine
PubMed: 14583947
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002222 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2001Prostaglandins have been used for induction of labour since the 1960s. Initial work focused on prostaglandin F2a as prostaglandin E2 was considered unsuitable for a... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Prostaglandins have been used for induction of labour since the 1960s. Initial work focused on prostaglandin F2a as prostaglandin E2 was considered unsuitable for a number of reasons. With the development of alternative routes of administration, comparisons were made between various formulations of vaginal prostaglandins. This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effects of vaginal prostaglandins E2 and F2a for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour in comparison with placebo/no treatment or other vaginal prostaglandins (except Misoprostol).
SEARCH STRATEGY
The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register, the Cochrane Controlled trials register and bibliographies of relevant papers. Last searched: November 2000.
SELECTION CRITERIA
The criteria for inclusion included the following: (1) clinical trials comparing vaginal prostaglandins used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with placebo/no treatment or other methods listed above it on a predefined list of labour induction methods; (2) random allocation to the treatment or control group; (3) adequate allocation concealment; (4) violations of allocated management not sufficient to materially affect conclusions; (5) clinically meaningful outcome measures reported; (6) data available for analysis according to the random allocation; (7) missing data insufficient to materially affect the conclusions.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A strategy has been developed to deal with the large volume and complexity of trial data relating to labour induction. This involved a two-stage method of data extraction. The initial data extraction was done centrally, and incorporated into a series of primary reviews arranged by methods of induction of labour, following a standardised methodology. The data was then extracted from the primary reviews into a series of secondary reviews, arranged by category of woman. To avoid duplication of data in the primary reviews, the labour induction methods were listed in a specific order, from one to 23. Each primary review included comparisons between one of the methods (from two to 23) with only those methods above it on the list.
MAIN RESULTS
In total, 94 studies were considered; 42 have been excluded and 52 included examining a total of 9402 women. Vaginal prostaglandin E2 compared with placebo or no treatment reduced the likelihood of vaginal delivery not being achieved within 24 hours (18% vs. 99%, RR 0.19, 95% CI 0.14,0.25), the caesarean section rates were not different between groups although the risk of uterine hyperstimulation with fetal heart rate changes was increased (4.6% vs. 0.51%, RR 4.14, 95% CI 1.93, 8.90). Comparison of vaginal prostaglandin F2a with placebo showed no increase in caesarean section rates but the cervical score was more likely to be improved (15% vs. 60%, RR 0.25, 95% CI 0.13,0.49), and the risk of oxytocin augmentation reduced (53.9% vs. 89.1%, RR 0.60, 95% CI 0.43,0.84) with the use of vaginal PGF2a. There were insufficient data to make meaningful conclusions for the comparison of vaginal PGE2 and PGF2a. PGE2 tablet, gel and pessary appear to be as efficacious as each other. Lower dose regimes, as defined in the review, appear as efficacious as higher dose regimes.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
The primary aim of this review was to examine the efficacy of vaginal prostaglandin E2 and F2a. This is reflected by an increase in successful vaginal delivery rates in 24 hours, no increase in operative delivery rates and significant improvements in cervical favourability within 24-48 hours. Further research is needed to quantify the cost-analysis of induction of labour with vaginal prostaglandins, with special attention to different methods of administration.
Topics: Administration, Intravaginal; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Humans; Labor, Induced; Oxytocics; Pregnancy
PubMed: 11406078
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003101 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2001This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology. (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effects of extra-amniotic prostaglandin for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour.
SEARCH STRATEGY
The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and bibliographies of relevant papers. Date of last search: December 2000.
SELECTION CRITERIA
(1) clinical trials comparing extra-amniotic prostaglandin used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with placebo/no treatment or other methods listed above it on a predefined list of labour induction methods; (2) random allocation to the treatment or control group; (3) adequate allocation concealment; (4) violations of allocated management not sufficient to materially affect conclusions; (5) clinically meaningful outcome measures reported; (6) data available for analysis according to the random allocation; (7) missing data insufficient to materially affect the conclusions.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A strategy has been developed to deal with the large volume and complexity of trial data relating to labour induction. This has involved a two-stage method of data extraction. The initial data were extracted centrally, and incorporated into a series of primary reviews arranged by methods of induction of labour, following a standardised methodology.
MAIN RESULTS
Oxytocin was used to initiate or augment labour significantly less frequently with extra-amniotic prostaglandins when compared to placebo (relative risk 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.38-0.66). No other findings were significant in the comparisons that were made for this review including when extra-amniotic prostaglandins were compared with other methods of cervical ripening or induction of labour. Although this could suggest that extra-amniotic prostaglandins are as effective as other agents, the findings are difficult to interpret because they are based on very small numbers and may lack the power to show a real difference.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
The studies in this review are limited by their small sample sizes which are in many cases further divided into multiple comparison groups. The analyses resulted in most comparisons showing no significant differences, with wide confidence intervals. Although extra-amniotic prostaglandins may be as effective as other modalities in initiating labour, there is little conclusive information from this review to guide clinical practice. An adequately powered randomised controlled trial would be useful to determine if the use of extra-amniotic prostaglandins would lower the rate of caesarean section. However, in the time since these studies were undertaken the use of extra-amniotic prostaglandins has largely been replaced by other modes of prostaglandin administration.
Topics: Cervical Ripening; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Humans; Labor, Induced; Oxytocics; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Trimester, Third; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 11406071
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD003092 -
The Cochrane Database of Systematic... 2000Intravenous prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha can be used to induce labour. The use of intravenous prostaglandins in this context has been limited by perceived unacceptable... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Intravenous prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha can be used to induce labour. The use of intravenous prostaglandins in this context has been limited by perceived unacceptable maternal side effect profiles. This is one of a series of reviews of methods of cervical ripening and labour induction using standardised methodology.
OBJECTIVES
To determine the effects of intravenous prostaglandin for third trimester cervical ripening or induction of labour.
SEARCH STRATEGY
The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register, The Cochrane Controlled Trials Register and bibliographies of relevant papers.
SELECTION CRITERIA
The criteria for inclusion included the following: (1) clinical trials comparing intravenous prostaglandin used for third trimester cervical ripening or labour induction with placebo/no treatment or other methods listed above it on a predefined list of labour induction methods; (2) random allocation to the treatment or control group; (3) adequate allocation concealment; (4) violations of allocated management not sufficient to materially affect conclusions; (5) clinically meaningful outcome measures reported; (6) data available for analysis according to the random allocation; (7) missing data insufficient to materially affect the conclusions.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS
A strategy has been developed to deal with the large volume and complexity of trial data relating to labour induction. This involves a two-stage method of data extraction. The initial data extraction is done centrally, and incorporated into a series of primary reviews arranged by methods of induction of labour, following a standardised methodology. The data will then be extracted from the primary reviews into a series of secondary reviews, arranged by category of woman. To avoid duplication of data in the primary reviews, the labour induction methods have been listed in a specific order, from one to 25. Each primary review includes comparisons between one of the methods (from two to 25) with only those methods above it on the list.
MAIN RESULTS
Thirteen trials were eligible for inclusion in this review. Two trials (comprising 400 women) compared intravenous prostaglandin E2 to intravenous oxytocin, a further seven trials (comprising 590 women) compared intravenous prostaglandin F2 alpha to intravenous oxytocin. Two trials (comprising 115 women) each randomised women to one of three treatment arms namely intravenous oxytocin or intravenous prostaglandin F2 alpha or prostaglandin E2. One trial reported a comparison of combined oxytocin and prostaglandin F2 alpha and oxytocin alone in 20 women and lastly one trial compared extra amniotic prostaglandin E2 versus intravenous prostaglandin E2 (40 women). The use of intravenous prostaglandin was associated with higher rates of uterine hyperstimulation with changes in the fetal heart rate (relative risk (RR) 6.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.23-37.11) and without (RR 4.25, 95%CI 1.48-12.24) compared to oxytocin. Use of prostaglandins was also associated with significantly more maternal side effects (gastrointestinal, thrombophlebitis and pyrexia, RR 3.75, 95% CI 2.46-5.70) than oxytocin. Prostaglandin was no more likely to result in vaginal delivery than oxytocin (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.61-1.18). No significant differences emerged from subgroup analysis or from the trials comparing combination oxytocin/prostaglandin F2 alpha and oxytocin or extra amniotic versus intravenous prostaglandin E2.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS
Intravenous prostaglandin is no more efficient than intravenous oxytocin for the induction of labour but its use is associated with higher rates of maternal side effects and uterine hyperstimulation than oxytocin. No conclusions can be drawn form the comparisons of combination of prostaglandin F2 alpha and oxytocin compared to oxytocin alone or extra amniotic and intravenous prostaglandin E2.
Topics: Clinical Trials as Topic; Dinoprost; Dinoprostone; Female; Humans; Injections, Intravenous; Labor, Induced; Oxytocics; Oxytocin; Pregnancy
PubMed: 11034778
DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD002864