Trends in glaucoma drug prescriptions: U.S. ophthalmologists favor generics and newer agents

A recent study analyzing Medicare Part D data from 2018 to 2022 highlights shifting trends in glaucoma drug prescriptions by U.S. ophthalmologists. The findings indicate a temporary decline in claims from 2018-2019 to 2019-2020, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a subsequent rise in prescriptions through 2021-2022.

Prostaglandin analogs emerged as the most frequently prescribed drug class, with latanoprost, timolol, and the dorzolamide/timolol combination being the top choices. Generic medications dominated the market, with their usage steadily increasing over time. Rho kinase inhibitors represented the fastest-growing drug class, signaling a shift toward newer therapeutic options.

These prescribing patterns reflect the rising prevalence of glaucoma and evolving treatment preferences among ophthalmologists.

Reference
Vought R, Vought V, Crane AB, et al. Medicare Part D Glaucoma Drug Prescribing Patterns by Ophthalmologists from 2018 to 2022. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther. 2025;doi: 10.1089/jop.2024.0196. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39910031.