Latanoprost
Molecule Description
Latanoprost is used to reduce the elevated fluid pressure in the eye (in condit
ions like glaucoma) and belongs to a group of medicines ‘Prostaglandin Analogs’. It is available in the form of eye drops.
Uses of Latanoprost
It is used in the treatment for conditions where the fluid pressure in the eye is increased (ocular hypertension) and situations where the eye pressure is raised due to a milder form of outflow obstruction of the nourishing fluid in the eye (open-angle glaucoma)....
Contraindications of Latanoprost
When should one not use Latanoprost
Allergy to Latanoprost or any of its ingredients.
Side effects of Latanoprost
Common side effects of this drug are:
- A gradual change in the color of the eye, especially if you have mixed color eyes (blue-brown, green-brown, grey-brown, etc.)
- The color change may be permanent and more prominent if you use in only one eye, but is associated with long term treatment (close to a year)
- Redness, irritation, itching, burning or stinging sensation of the eye
- Increase in color, thickness, length, and number of eyelashes (mainly in Japanese people)
- Pain in the eyes, sensitivity to light, infections of the eye lids (blepharitis) and covering of the eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Dryness of the eye, blurred vision, irritation of the surface of the eye (keratitis) or the colored part of the eye (uveitis), swelling of innermost sensitive layer of the eye or the retina (macular edema), skin rashes, chest pain, muscle and joint pains, feeling dizzy, headache, heavy heartbeats (palpitations), asthma and breathing difficulty...
Precautions and Warnings of Latanoprost
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Latanoprost during pregnancy?
A:
Due to the lack of enough data, It is recommended to avoid Latanoprost in pregnant women.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Latanoprost while breastfeeding?
A:
Latanoprost has the potential to be secreted in breast milk and is advised not to use this medicine during breastfeeding to prevent any harm to the baby.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Latanoprost?
A:
Using Latanoprost can cause eye problems, including blurred vision. Do not drive if you experience any such symptoms, and until they are resolved.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Latanoprost?
A:
Alcohol may cause the pressure in the eye to elevate and hence can only be taken in low amounts (occasionally).
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
- You had history or planning eye surgery
- You experience dry eyes, irritation, and pain of the eyes, blurred vision
- You have asthma or a viral infection of the eye (caused by herpes simplex virus)
- You are wearing contact lenses
Mode of Action of Latanoprost
How Does It Work?
A cleary watery fluid is produced continuously in the eye that nourishes it. Any condition that blocks the outflow of this fluid will cause elevated pressure in the eye. Latanoprost increases the discharge of this fluid from the eye and thus lowers the pressure....
Interactions of Latanoprost
Interactions with other medicines
- Other related or medicines of the same class such as Bimatoprost, Travoprost, etc. (other Prostaglandins or Prostaglandin Analogs)
- Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances naturally produced in the body whose main function is to mediate immune response, relax blood vessels (lowering fluid pressure). Their most common usage is as pain killers...
Interactions with food items
No food interaction has been reported.
Dietary Restrictions of Latanoprost
No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Latanoprost, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
Dosage of Latanoprost
Overdose
Remember to use only one drop in the affected eye. The overuse of Latanoprost most commonly results in redness and irritation of the eye. Inform your doctor if you notice any such symptoms.
Missed a Dose
Latanoprost can be used only once in a day and preferably in the evening times; this means that it can only be taken once in 24 hours. If you missed a usage, continue with the next use as per schedule. Do not take more than one drop to compensate for the missed usage....
Content Details
WRITTEN BY
Dr. Ravi Kakarla
MBBS, MBA
REVIEWED BY
Dr. Ritu Budania
MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there anything else I need to know before using Latanoprost?
- Latanoprost is usually administered as one drop in the affected eye
- This medicine cannot be used more than one time in a day, as pressure in the eye can drop below required levels
- It can be taken at any time of the day, but preferably in the evenings
- Remove any contact lenses before using the eye drops and wear them back 15 minutes later
- If you are using more than one eye drop solutions, take them at least 5 minutes apart
- Latanoprost can be used in newborns (right from birth), infants, children and adults
- Consult the doctor in case of preterm babies
- There is a chance that the color of your eyes may change with this medicine, especially if you have mixed color eyes (blue-brown, grey-brown, etc.)
Q: Is Latanoprost an effective medicine for glaucoma?
- Latanoprost is a well-tolerated and effective medicine to lower the elevated eye pressure in conditions like glaucoma
- It causes lesser side effects than other medicines of the class like Timolol and offers the convenience of using once daily
- It will take 8-12 hours for Latanoprost to show its impact, but the effect remains for 24 hours
- It is recommended to use Latanoprost under medical supervision.
References
View All
Share This With Your Friends
Recent articles
Disclaimer
The information provided herein is supplied to the best of our abilities to make it accurate and reliable as it is published after a review by a team of professionals. This information is solely intended to provide a general overview on the product and must be used for informational purposes only. You should not use the information provided herein to diagnose, prevent, or cure a health problem. Nothing contained on this page is intended to create a doctor-patient relationship, replace or be a substitute for a registered medical practitioner's medical treatment/advice or consultation. The absence of any information or warning to any medicine shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance. We highly recommend that you consult your registered medical practitioner for all queries or doubts related to your medical condition. You hereby agree that you shall not make any health or medical-related decision based in whole or in part on anything contained in the Site. Please click here for detailed T&C.
Medicines containing Latanoprost
+ View More Medicines
