Safety and efficacy of Lodoxamide in Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis

Objective: To observe the safety and efficacy of topical Lodoxamide eye drops in patients with diagnosed vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC). Methods: This study was conducted at Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, BMSI, JPMC, Karachi in collaboration with Department of Ophthalmology, JPMC, Karachi, from April to October, 2009. A total of forty patients with diagnosed vernal keratoconjunctivitis were selected and enrolled consecutively from the out patient department (OPD) of Ophthalmology. Each patient received two drops of Lodoxamide eye drops topically in each eye four times daily. Patients were examined with a torch and slit lamp at baseline and follow-up visits. Results: Out of 40 patients included, 39 completed the study and there was a significant effect of the drug on symptoms and signs of the disease. At the end of the study, 38 (97.4%) were cured, with few side effects. The cure criteria was based on patient's history of becoming symptom-free and resolution of ocular signs. Conclusion: Topical lodoxamide eye drops, when used for treatment of VKC, are effective with fewer adverse effects.