The U.S. FDA approved Latanoprost for ocular use in 1996. Latanoprost belongs to the medication class known as prostaglandin analog, which works by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring substance in the body called prostaglandin.

Latanoprost treats open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension in adults. They work by reducing the pressure in the eye, achieved by enhancing the natural drainage of fluid from the eye into the bloodstream. Also, it is used to treat increased eye pressure and glaucoma in children and babies of all ages.

Use the Latanoprost as your physician advises. Do not take more or less of the eye drops than your doctor has instructed. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. 

The most common side effects of Latanoprost are gradual change in eye color (increasing brown pigment), redness of the eye, eye irritation (burning, itching, stinging), changes to eyelashes and fine hairs around the treated eye (mainly in people of Japanese origin), irritation or disruption to the eye surface, eyelid inflammation (blepharitis), eye pain, and light sensitivity (photophobia).

Do not use Latanoprost if you are allergic to Latanoprost, benzalkonium chloride, or any of its ingredients. Do not use this eyedrop if you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, or planning to get pregnant, or if  you are breastfeeding. Before using this eye drop for yourself or your child, it's crucial to consult your doctor if you or your child are planning to have or have had eye surgery, have any eye problems like pain, irritation, or blurred vision, or experience dry eyes. These eye drops have not been studied in infants born prematurely (less than 36 weeks gestation). 

Notify your doctor if you have severe or poorly controlled asthma, wearing contact lenses, or have had a viral eye infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). When using Latanoprost, there is a possibility of pigmentation changes in your iris, periorbital tissue (eyelid), and eyelashes. This pigmentation in the iris is likely to be permanent, while changes to eyelashes, such as increased length, thickness, and number, are usually reversible. It's essential to stay informed about these effects and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Store the unopened bottle in a refrigerator (2°C - 8°C). After opening, store it below 25°C and use within 4 weeks.

It is essential to remove your contact lenses before using this eye drops. After applying the eye drops, wait for 15 minutes before putting the contact lenses back in to avoid any potential interactions. Moreover, if you need to use other eye drops in addition to Latanoprost, make sure to wait at least five minutes before using them to ensure their effectiveness and minimize any possible adverse effects. Following these instructions can help you use the eye drops safely and effectively while maintaining good eye health. It is advised not to put too many drops in your eye, which can lead to slight irritation, watering, and redness. If you have any concerns, contact your doctor. 

1. Tubilux pharma S.p.A; Electronic medicines compendium (emc); [Revised on March 2022] [ Accessed on 26th July 2023] *pil.6945.pdf (medicines.org.uk)
2. Pfizer; [Accessed on 26th July 2023],  http://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=613
3. Pfizer; U.S Food & Drug Administration FDA; [Revised on June 2014] [ Accessed on 26th July 2023.]  https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/020597s045s048lbl.pdf
4. Jeffrey D. Henderer and Christopher J. Rapuano, Ocular Pharmacology, Goodman & Gilman's Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 2011, Page 1773-1801.

The drug information on this page is not a substitute for medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you are eligible to receive this treatment.