Effect of Topical Timolol in Inhibiting Corneal Neovascularization in Rabbits

Timolol is a beta-blocker. This drug is a non-selective antagonist beta-adrenergic which is similar to propranolol. The mechanism of effects of these drugs on the regression of neovascularization is unknown, but it appears that it acts through the VEGF and vasoconstriction and induction of apoptosis of vascular endothelial.
Twenty of one year old Iranian male rabbits were selected weighing between 1500 to1900 gm. Induced neovascularization of eyes in 2 groups were investigated. The first group (Timolol): Timolol 2 times per day. The second group (Saline group): Saline drops 2 times per day.
After a week of treatment, the mean percentage area of neovascularization compared to baseline in the Timolol group was 4.63 ± 4.61% and 58.39± 6.31 percent in saline (control group) and after 2 weeks the mean percent area of neovascularization compared to baseline in the Timolol group was 0.85± 1.33% and 1.73 ± 2.06 percent in saline. After a week of treatment, neovascularization area in the Timolol group was significantly lower than the control group. (p value