Why is Apraclonidine not preferred for chronic POAG treatment?

Apraclonidine is not preferred for the chronic treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) primarily due to the phenomenon of tachyphylaxis and the potential for allergic responses. Tachyphylaxis refers to the rapid decrease in response to a drug after repeated doses over a short period. In the case of apraclonidine, patients may experience diminishing therapeutic effects after continued use, which undermines its efficacy as a long-term treatment option for glaucoma.

Additionally, allergic responses to apraclonidine can occur, leading to adverse reactions that may complicate therapy and limit patient compliance. Together, these factors make apraclonidine less desirable for managing chronic conditions like POAG compared to other available medications that do not exhibit such rapid tolerance or high rates of allergic reactions.

Other factors, such as eye irritation and systemic absorption, may influence the choice of treatment, but the hallmark issues of tachyphylaxis and potential for allergic responses are the primary reasons apraclonidine is not favored for chronic management.