Cutaneous Prostaglandin Application: Nail Growth, Nail Brittleness, and Eye Pressure

Completed · Not applicable · Has a placebo group

Conditions studied: Nail Growth Cessation, Intraocular Pressure

In brief

Topical prostaglandin agents are used to help reduce eye pressure in glaucoma patients. Bimatoprost (Lumigan 0.01%) is such an agent (Allergan, Inc.). Several of our patients on bimatoprost and an observational study of patients on bimatoprost in another center reported that fingernails grew longer and became less brittle using the topical eye drops to the eyes. The purpose of the double-blinded study is to determine whether the application of the eye drops directly to the proximal nail fold of one hand using the opposite hand as a control will result in longer nails, less brittle nails, and reduced eye pressures should any of the medication be absorbed into the systemic circulation.

Key facts

Study ID: NCT02448043
Run by: Northwestern University
People needed: 45
Starts: 2015-06-04
Expected to finish: 2016-05-06
Last updated by the study team: 2019-12-13

Who can join

Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.

You may qualify if…

English speaking
Normotensive or glaucoma suspects on no ocular medications
No manicure within 2 weeks of the study.

You may not qualify if…

Individuals on topical or systemic essential fatty acids (EFA's) in hand lotions, creams, ointments, or medication, or on biotin.
Digits with signs of nail injury, deformity, or infection.
Nail biters, nail polishers, artificial nail wear or gels, and nail and trimming and filing until the study endpoint.
Women of childbearing age who are pregnant or who are trying to become pregnant.
Individuals with allergies or sensitivity to prostaglandin agents.

Where it is running

David J. Palmer, MD — Glenview, Illinois, United States

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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