[Depression of respiration via toxic effects on the central nervous system following use of topical brimonidine in an infant with congenital glaucoma].

We report the case of a premature newborn (gestational age 33 weeks) with congenital glaucoma. After a trabeculotomy high intraocular pressure persisted, leading to adjuvant treatment with timolol and--when the infant was 3 weeks old--with brimonidine. After the first application of topical brimonidine the infant developed such severe apnoeic spells that intubation and temporary ventilation were necessary. A review of the literature reveals that when used in young infants brimonidine eye drops can potentially have toxic effects on the central nervous system (e.g. respiratory depression). The use of topical brimonidine is therefore not advised in this age group.