Brand names: Xalatan®
Chemical formula:
Latanoprost Ophthalmic drops, solution
What is this medicine?
LATANOPROST is used in the eye to treat open angle glaucoma and high pressure in the eye.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
•closed angle glaucoma
•eye injury, infection, or swelling
•wear contact lenses
•an unusual or allergic reaction to latanoprost or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
•pregnant or trying to get pregnant
•breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down the lower lid with the index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye or into the pouch. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops into the pouch and gently close the eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Do not blink. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use you medicine more often than directed. If you are using another eye product, wait at least 5 minutes between use of this medicine and the other eye product.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What may interact with this medicine?
•bromfenac
•eye drops that contain thimerosal (a preservative)
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Report any serious side effects right away. Stop using this medicine if your eyes get swollen, painful, or have a discharge, and see your doctor or health care professional as soon as you can.
This medicine may cause your eye, eyelashes, and eyelids to change color. Tell your doctor or health care professional if this happens. If only one eye is being treated with with this medicine, a difference may develop between the treated and untreated eye in eyelash length, darkness or thickness, and/or color changes of the eyelid skin or iris. These changes may be permanent.
If you wear contact lenses, take them out before placing drops in the eye. Contact lenses may be put back in 15 minutes after putting the drops in your eyes.
Wear dark glasses if this medicine makes your eyes more sensitive to light.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
•allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
•changes in vision
•redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
•swollen or infected eyes or eyelids
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
•burning, stinging, or discomfort immediately after using the solution
•changes in eye, eyelash, or eyelid color
•dry eyes
•increased flow of tears
•sensitivity of the eyes to light
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store unopened bottle in the refrigerator at 2 to 8 degrees C (36 to 46 degrees F). Once opened, the container may be stored at room temperature up to 25 degrees C (77 degrees F) for up to 6 weeks. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
