Previous studies have evaluated the efficacy of several interventions to decrease the progression of
myopia. These include devices that alter the perception of the visual environment and pharmacological treatments. There is no conclusive evidence thus far that alteration of the pattern of spectacle wear, bifocals, ocular hypotensives, or
contact lenses retards the progression of
myopia. Several randomised clinical trials have demonstrated that the rate of progression of
myopia is lower in children given
atropine eye drops than those given placebo. However,
atropine is associated with short term side effects such as
photophobia and possible long term adverse events including light induced
retinal damage and
cataract formation. Other more selective
antimuscarinic agents such as pirenzipine are presently being evaluated. Further well conducted randomised clinical trials with large sample sizes and adequate follow up designed to evaluate treatments to retard the progression of
myopia should be conducted, since the identification of an effective intervention may have a greater public health impact on the burden and morbidity from
myopia than the few treatments currently available.