Losartan Eye Drops Show Promise in Treating Corneal Opacities, Case Study Finds
Pakistan: Losartan, a widely used angiotensin II receptor blocker for hypertension, has recently been recognized for its potential therapeutic effects beyond blood pressure regulation. Research suggests that Losartan may aid in treating liver fibrosis, radiation-induced heart disease, scar reduction, and renal cortical fibrosis. Now, emerging evidence highlights its possible role in improving corneal opacities, offering a new avenue for ophthalmic treatment.
A recent case study published in the Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences involving an 18-year-old female with persistent bilateral nummular keratitis and corneal opacities demonstrated significant improvement in the affected eye following treatment with 0.8mg/ml Losartan eye drops. The patient had struggled with corneal opacities for two years, resistant to conventional treatments, including topical steroids, lubricants, and cyclosporine drops. Her uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 6/20 in the right and 6/30 in the left eye, with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 6/12 and 6/15, respectively.
She was initially considered for phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) due to the density and anterior stromal location of the opacities. However, her thin corneas (469 and 471 microns in the right and left eye) made her ineligible for the procedure. As an alternative, she was offered a trial of topical Losartan eye drops in her left eye after informed consent. The drops were prepared by dissolving Losartan tablets in a sterile balanced electrolyte solution and administered six times daily. Her right eye continued on standard treatment.
After one month, there was a significant improvement in the treated eye. The previously dense opacities had largely faded, leaving only faint traces, whereas the untreated eye showed no change. Her BCVA improved to 6/9 in the left eye, while the right eye remained at 6/12. Encouraged by the positive response and absence of side effects, the same treatment was introduced to the right eye. Over the following months, similar improvements were noted, with no reported ocular or systemic complications.
The case highlights the potential of Losartan eye drops in resolving corneal opacities, particularly in patients who do not respond to conventional treatments. The stark contrast between the treated and untreated eyes further supports its efficacy. While isolated reports suggest similar benefits in other corneal conditions, larger clinical trials are necessary to assess its long-term safety and effectiveness. Future studies should explore its broader application in ophthalmology and determine optimal dosage and treatment duration.
"These findings highlight the need for further research into the role of Losartan in corneal health, potentially paving the way for a novel therapeutic approach for patients with persistent corneal opacities," Aisha Fawad, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and colleagues concluded.
Reference:
Fawad A, Muzaffar W, Anjum U, Amer MN. Effect of 0.8mg/ml Losartan on Corneal Opacities. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(3):926-928. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.3.11237
