PURPOSE
To evaluate the role of levodopa/carbidopa in the treatment of amblyopia.
METHODS
Thirty patients with strabismic amblyopia between the ages of 3 and 12 years were part of this double-blind, randomized study. Patients were divided into two groups. Group A received 0.50 mg + 1.25 mg of levodopa/carbidopa per kilogram body weight three times daily after meals, with a protein rich drink, whereas Group B received placebo. Both groups received full-time conventional occlusion until a visual acuity of 6/6 was achieved or for a maximum of 3 months.
RESULTS
The authors observed more than two lines improvement in visual acuity that was greater in the levodopa group (15 of 15) than in the placebo group (9 of 15) (P < .005). Furthermore, improvement in visual acuity of more than two lines was greater in patients younger than 8 years (100%) than in patients older than 8 years of age (60%) (P = .0026). There was also no significant reversal of the improved visual acuity in up to 6 months of follow-up.
CONCLUSION
Levodopa/carbidopa improves visual acuity in patients with amblyopia and maintains improved visual acuity, especially in patients younger than 8 years.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:87-90.]
AUTHORS
From the Guru Nanak Eye Center (SD, PV), Maulana Azad Medical College; and the Department of Ophthalmology (KPSM), Safdarjung Hospital, Delhi, India.
Originally submitted December 13, 2006. Accepted for publication October 4, 2007.
Presented in part at the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology meeting, Kula Lumpur, Malaysia, March 27-31, 2005.
Supported by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Government of India.
Drs. Dadeya, Vats, and Malik have disclosed no relevant financial relationships.
Address correspondence to Subhash Dadeya, MD, MNAMS, FIMSA, D-10, Mirdard Lane, Flat No. 13, Type 5 MAM, Maulana Azad Medical College, Delhi-2, India.
