NCT07847073 · Brett King
Adaptive Optics OCT Evaluation of Rhopressa's Effects on the Retinal Ganglion Cells in Glaucoma Patients
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to compare how two FDA-approved eye drops: netarsudil (Rhopressa) and timolol, protect nerve cells in the eye of adults with open-angle glaucoma. Both medications lower pressure inside the eye, but researchers want to learn if Rhopressa is more effective at slowing down or preventing the loss of retinal ganglion cells.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to compare how two FDA-approved eye drops: netarsudil (Rhopressa) and timolol, protect nerve cells in the eye of adults with open-angle glaucoma. Both medications lower pressure inside the eye, but researchers want to learn if Rhopressa is more effective at slowing down or preventing the loss of retinal ganglion cells. These cells are essential for sight because they carry visual signals from the eye to the brain. Participants in this study will complete a total of 6 study visits over 12 months: * Participants will spend 6 months using Rhopressa eye drops and 6 months using Timolol eye drops. The order of the two eye drops will be chosen randomly. * At scheduled study visits, researchers will examine participants' eyes and measure eye pressure. * Researchers will take detailed pictures of the back of the eye using a specialized high-resolution camera called adaptive optics optical coherence tomography (AO-OCT). * Participants will also complete specialized visual field testing to measure eye function. Researchers will count and track individual nerve cells over time to determine if one medication offers better protection against cell loss than the other.
Interventions
DRUG
Netarsudil 0.02% Ophthalmic Solution [RHOPRESSA]
Netarsudil ophthalmic solution (Rhopressa) is an FDA-approved Rho kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. In this study, participants will instill 1 drop of netarsudil 0.02% ophthalmic solution in the study eye once daily in the evening for 6 months.
DRUG
Timolol Maleate 0.25% Ophthalmic Solution
Timolol maleate ophthalmic solution is an FDA-approved non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agent indicated for the treatment of ocular hypertension and open-angle glaucoma. In this study, participants will instill 1 drop of timolol maleate 0.25% ophthalmic solution in the study eye twice daily (in the morning and evening) for 6 months.
Primary outcome measures
Change in GC soma density (cells/mm²)
Time frame: Baseline, 6 months, and 12 months
Change in ganglion cell (GC) soma density during treatment with timolol versus netarsudil (Rhopressa)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- All subjects will be 18 years of age or older
- Subjects must be diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma and have had an eye exam within the past year
- Subjects with glaucoma will have structural (optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer) and functional (visual field testing) defects consistent with the diagnosis of glaucoma
- Subjects will have a corrected acuity of 20/50 or better and be able to fixate
- Naïve to medication subjects or post washout IOP between 18 and 34 mmHg
- Spherical equivalent from +3 diopters to -6 diopters, with a cylinder of \<-3 diopters
- Subject is willing and able to comply with the protocol requirements and to remain in the study for its full duration, including all scheduled visits and follow-up assessments
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects with a known intolerance to netarsudil ophthalmic solution
- Subjects with a known intolerance to, or contraindication for, timolol maleate
- Any subject whom the investigator determines to be at unacceptable risk for the washout or believes is unlikely to complete the study
- Subjects with retinal disease or optic neuropathies other than glaucoma that, in the opinion of the investigator, could confound the study assessments or outcome
- Female subjects who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or of childbearing age who are not sterile or using an acceptable method of contraception during the study
Where
- Bloomington, Indiana
Collaborators
Alcon Research
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Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations