Overview
Latanoprost 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 peak effect occurring 8-12 hours after administration. The medication is administered as one drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening.
Mechanism of Action
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2α analog that reduces intraocular pressure by increasing uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor through relaxation of ciliary muscle and remodeling of extracellular matrix in the ciliary body and sclera.
Indications
- Reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma
- Reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with ocular hypertension
Common Doses
- 0.005% (50 mcg/mL)
Dosage
One drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening. Do not exceed once daily dosing. If a dose is missed, continue with the next scheduled dose. When using with other topical ophthalmic medications, administer at least 5 minutes apart. Remove contact lenses before administration and wait 15 minutes before reinsertion.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to latanoprost
- Hypersensitivity to benzalkonium chloride
- Hypersensitivity to any other ingredients in the formulation
Side Effects
- Iris pigmentation changes (permanent increase in brown pigment)
- Eyelid skin darkening
- Eyelash changes (increased length, thickness, pigmentation, number)
- Intraocular inflammation (iritis/uveitis)
- Macular edema, including cystoid macular edema
- Conjunctival hyperemia
- Foreign body sensation
- Eye pain
- Blurred vision
- Punctate epithelial erosions
Interactions
- Precipitation occurs when mixed with eye drops containing thimerosal
- Avoid concomitant use with other prostaglandin or prostaglandin analog medications as this may decrease efficacy or cause paradoxical IOP elevation
Counseling Points
- Administer one drop in affected eye(s) once daily in the evening
- Do not exceed once daily dosing
- Remove contact lenses before administration and wait 15 minutes before reinsertion
- If using other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between medications
- Report any eye pain, redness, vision changes, or eyelash growth changes to healthcare provider
- Iris color changes may be permanent and occur gradually over months to years
- Do not touch dropper tip to any surface to avoid contamination