Review of the Synthesis of Bimatoprost Drug Substance Used for the Treatment of Open-Angle Glaucoma

Open-angle glaucoma (OAG) is a chronic and degenerative condition that causes optic nerve damage and potential blindness. The objective of this review is to provide a brief overview on OAG with emphasis on the importance of prostaglandin analogues for eye care. Bimatoprost (6) is an important prostaglandin analogue widely used in several medications for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma. A literary review of the various approaches reported for the synthesis of bimatoprost (6) drug substance is presented. In addition, the reported bimatoprost (6) synthetic routes are assessed to identify strengths and weaknesses from a drug substance process chemistry perspective. A summary of bimatoprost (6) synthetic routes assessment is also provided based on drug substance quality, process, and environmental considerations.