Survey reveals gaps in patient awareness of preservative-free glaucoma treatments

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The Preservative Freedom Coalition conducted a nationwide survey¹ with patients with glaucoma and discovered that many patients feel communication with clinicians is lacking.

The survey conducted by the Preservative Freedom Coalition, asked 558 patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension how they felt about their treatments, the future of their eye health, trust in their doctors, and more.

Of those surveyed, more than half have been living with their condition for more than 7 years, with the majority (>75%) indicating early/mild or moderate stages as described by their physician. The survey was conducted across the United States: West 19%, Northeast 25%, Southeast 25%, Midwest 18%, Southwest 13%. Data was collected via an online survey from November 21, 2024, and January 5, 2025. Respondents were recruited from an online survey panel via a primary research recruitment agency and through the Glaucoma Foundation mailing list.

The survey itself consisted of 23 single selection, multiple choice, Likert scale, and open field response questions, and according to the organization, took 10-15 minutes to complete.

Responses showed that only 20% of patients are satisfied with their current treatment, and approximately 33% stopped, skipped, or requested a change of medication due to undesirable impacts or negative effects. Furthermore, 60% of patients expressed concerns about the toxicity of preservatives, with 61% of patients stating they were unaware of preservative-free alternatives for treatment. Symptoms like gritty eyes and discomfort, which can be often associated with the use of preservatives, were reported by 62% of patients.

Most patients (82%) expressed significant trust in their doctors; however, 49% of those not using preservative-free options reported a lack of recommendations from their doctors.

Elena Sturman, president and CEO of The Glaucoma Foundation and founding member of the Preservative Freedom Coalition, commented on the survey results in a press release from the organization.¹

"The most surprising revelation from the Preservative Freedom Glaucoma Patient Experience Survey was that the majority of patients with glaucoma were not aware of their preservative-free options, despite their availability on the market,” said Sturman. “This is crucial because it reinforces the importance of having these conversations with patients and empowering them to take control of their ocular health, potentially mitigating side effects."

Jacob Lang, OD, medical director for Dry Eye Services at Associated Eye Care, president of the Intrepid Eye Society and founding member of the Preservative Freedom Coalition, discussed the need for innovative care in the press release.¹

“As medical professionals, we are the caretakers of eye health, and we have the responsibility to preserve and protect our patients’ vision,” said Lang. “Innovative care means thinking beyond short-term solutions and considering the individual needs of the patient. By integrating preservative-free treatments, we advance patient care, help reduce preservative-related side effects, and support long-lasting eye health."

The organization cited¹ that many prescription and over-the-counter eye drop formulations to treat glaucoma or ocular hypertension include preservatives. The use of preserved eye drops, particularly in glaucoma patients, is linked to various inflammatory reactions on the eye surface.

Reference:

1. Preservative Freedom Coalition Survey Reveals Urgent Need for Enhanced Patient-Physician Communication in Glaucoma. Published March 10, 2025. Accessed March 13, 2025. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250310684433/en/Preservative-Freedom-Coalition-Survey-Reveals-Urgent-Need-for-Enhanced-Patient-Physician-Communication-in-Glaucoma