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Drug Class
Prostaglandin Analogue
Common Uses
- High pressure inside the eye
Common Brand Names
Xalatan
Overview
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analogue medicine that treats high pressure inside the eye and helps treat glaucoma.
High pressure is usually caused by fluid building up in the front part of the eye, which can then increase pressure inside the eye.
If not treated, high pressure can damage your optic nerve and cause vision loss or blindness.
Latanoprost is available on prescription only in some countries.
It comes as eye drops, either in eye drop bottles with a preservative in, or in single-dose droppers that are preservative-free.
You may sometimes be prescribed eye drops containing both latanoprost and timolol (a beta blocker).
Important Facts
- You’ll usually use latanoprost eye drops once a day.
- The eye drops should help reduce the pressure within 3 to 4 hours.
- Common side effects include permanent eye colour change, eyelash growth, and an increased sensitivity to light.
- It's important to use your eye drops regularly and to go for check-ups, to make sure your vision is not getting worse.
- Once open, a bottle of eye drops will last for up to 4 weeks and a single dose dropper should be thrown away straight after use.
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