Latanoprost

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Molecule Description

Latanoprost is used to reduce the elevated fluid pressure in the eye (in conditions like glaucoma) and belongs to a group of medicines ‘Prostaglandin Analogs’. It is available in the form of eye drops.

Uses

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

When should one not use Latanoprost

Allergy to Latanoprost or any of its ingredients.

Side effects

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

Pregnancy

Due to the lack of enough data, It is recommended to avoid Latanoprost in pregnant women.

Breast Feeding

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

Using Latanoprost can cause eye problems, including blurred vision. Do not drive if you experience any such symptoms, and until they are resolved.

Alcohol

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

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

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

No information is available on dietary restrictions while you are taking Latanoprost, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.

Dosage

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Latanoprost is usually administered as one drop in the affected eyeThis medicine cannot be used more than one time in a day, as pressure in the eye can drop below required levelsIt can be taken at any time of the day, but preferably in the eveningsRemove any contact lenses before using the eye drops and wear them back 15 minutes laterIf you are using more than one eye drop solutions, take them at least 5 minutes apartLatanoprost can be used in newborns (right from birth), infants, children and adultsConsult the doctor in case of preterm babiesThere 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.)

Latanoprost is a well-tolerated and effective medicine to lower the elevated eye pressure in conditions like glaucomaIt causes lesser side effects than other medicines of the class like Timolol and offers the convenience of using once dailyIt will take 8-12 hours for Latanoprost to show its impact, but the effect remains for 24 hoursIt is recommended to use Latanoprost under medical supervision.