Glaucoma & Hydrogenated Oils: What You Need to Know

Question
I have been recently diagnosed with Glaucoma and perscribed Travatan (Travoprost) which contains hydrogenated castor oil. I am concerned about applying this to my eyes daily over the long term.  What are your thoughts re. this?

Answer
Dan,

While I am not an ophthalmologist I believe your concerns are regarding the hydrogenated oil (as it is widely known that such oils are "unhealthy" for good nutrition).  The minuscule amounts of this substance found in the ophthalmic solution would never impact your health in a negative way from a nutritional standpoint.  The warnings are for massive dietary (oral) intake of hydrogenated oils not their use in eye drops.  

Source:  http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/travoprost.htm

JP Saleeby, MD
www.xlibris.com/WonderHerbs
www.saleeby.net