Latanoprost is a medication prescribed as eye drops. It helps manage eye conditions by lowering pressure inside the eye. As a generic option, it is an accessible choice for many.
What Latanoprost Treats
Latanoprost treats elevated eye pressure, known as intraocular hypertension, and open-angle glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma is a common eye disease that damages the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss.
Ocular hypertension is elevated eye pressure, usually above 21 mmHg, without immediate optic nerve damage or vision loss. Untreated ocular hypertension can increase the risk of developing open-angle glaucoma. Both conditions involve a buildup of aqueous humor, a fluid produced by the eye, due to drainage issues. Latanoprost increases the outflow of this fluid, reducing intraocular pressure.
The Generic Difference
A generic medication is a version of a brand-name drug manufactured and sold after the original patent expires. Generic latanoprost contains the identical active ingredient as its brand-name counterpart, in the same strength and dosage form. It delivers the same amount of active compound into the bloodstream at a similar rate and extent.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) rigorously evaluates generic drugs to ensure bioequivalence, meaning they perform comparably to the brand-name version. This approval process confirms that generic latanoprost is considered just as safe and effective as the brand-name product. Generic medications offer significant cost savings, making them a more affordable option.
Proper Use and Administration
Latanoprost eye drops are administered once daily, preferably in the evening. Before applying the drops, wash your hands thoroughly. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before administration and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
To apply the drops, gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket and tilt your head back. Carefully squeeze the bottle to dispense one drop into the pocket, avoiding touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
After instilling the drop, close your eye and gently press your finger on the inner corner of your eye, near the nose, for about one minute. This technique, known as punctal occlusion, helps keep the medication in the eye and reduces systemic absorption.
If using other eye drops, wait at least five minutes between applications. If a dose is missed, skip it and continue with the next scheduled dose; do not apply extra drops to compensate. Unopened bottles of latanoprost should be stored in the refrigerator, while opened bottles can be kept in the refrigerator or at room temperature for up to six weeks.
Side Effects and Important Warnings
Latanoprost can cause side effects. Common side effects include eye irritation, redness, blurred vision, stinging, burning, or a feeling as if something is in the eye. Some individuals may also notice changes to their eyelashes, such as increased length, thickness, or darkening, and a gradual increase in the brown pigmentation of the iris, which can be permanent.
Less common but more serious side effects may include eye swelling, severe discomfort, crusting or discharge from the eye, or significant vision changes. Reactivation of herpes keratitis (eye herpes) has been reported, so inform your doctor if you have a history of this condition. Macular edema, a swelling of the retina that can affect vision, has also occurred in rare cases.
Consult a healthcare professional immediately if you experience any severe or concerning side effects. Latanoprost is contraindicated for individuals with hypersensitivity to latanoprost or benzalkonium chloride. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor before using this medication.