Overview
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analog ophthalmic solution used to reduce elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It works by increasing uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor, with effects beginning within 4 hours and peaking at 8-12 hours after administration. The medication is typically administered as one drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening.
Mechanism of Action
Bimatoprost is a synthetic prostaglandin analog that lowers intraocular pressure primarily by increasing uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor. It acts as a selective FP prostanoid receptor agonist, mimicking the effects of naturally occurring prostaglandins to enhance fluid drainage from the eye.
Indications
- Reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma
- Reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension
Common Doses
- 0.03% ophthalmic solution
Dosage
One drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening. Do not administer more than once daily as more frequent administration may decrease efficacy. Can be used concomitantly with other topical ophthalmic medications, with at least 5 minutes between different eye drops.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to bimatoprost or any ingredient in the formulation
Side Effects
- Conjunctival hyperemia
- Eyelash changes (increased length, thickness, pigmentation, number)
- Ocular pruritus
- Iris pigmentation changes
- Foreign body sensation
- Visual disturbance
- Ocular dryness
- Eye pain
- Eyelid erythema
- Intraocular inflammation
- Macular edema
Interactions
- No significant drug-drug interactions identified with topical ophthalmic administration
- May be used concomitantly with other topical ophthalmic medications with at least 5 minutes between administrations
Counseling Points
- Administer one drop in affected eye(s) once daily in evening
- Do not touch dropper tip to any surface to avoid contamination
- Wait at least 5 minutes before administering other eye medications
- Remove contact lenses before administration and wait 15 minutes before reinserting
- Report any eye pain, vision changes, or increased eye redness to healthcare provider
- Eyelash changes and iris color changes may be permanent