Neuroprotection in glaucoma: a review of available methods Review article

Abstract

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy that, if untreated, leads to irreversible blindness. It ranks second worldwide among causes of permanent vision loss. Although the primary goal of treatment is to lower intraocular pressure, increasing attention is being paid to neuroprotective strategies aimed at protecting retinal ganglion cells from degeneration. This paper aims to review the available methods of neuroprotection in glaucoma. Both pharmacological approaches, including Rho kinase inhibitors, glutamate antagonists (memantine, citicoline), adrenergic receptor agonists (brimonidine), statins, neurotrophic factors, antioxidants, cannabinoids, herbal preparations (Ginkgo biloba, huperzine A), and modern cell-based therapies are discussed. The mechanisms of action of these agents and the current status of clinical research are also included. Although many of these methods show promising results in experimental models, the clinical effectiveness of most interventions remains under investigation.