This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Xalatan Consumer Information
XALATAN
Generic Name: latanoprost ophthalmic (la TAN oh prost)
Brand Names: Xalatan
What is the most important information I should know about latanoprost ophthalmic?
- Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye possibly resulting in a loss of vision.
- Latanoprost ophthalmic may cause the iris (the colored part of the eye) to change. The amount of brown pigment in the eyes may increase during treatment with latanoprost ophthalmic. This effect occurs primarily in people with blue or green eyes. It is not known if color changes are reversible after therapy is stopped. Color changes may occur only in the eye being treated.
- Latanoprost ophthalmic contains a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), so do not wear soft contact lenses when applying this medication. Contact lenses can be inserted 15 minutes after application of the drops.
What is latanoprost ophthalmic?
- Latanoprost ophthalmic reduces pressure in the eye by increasing the amount of fluid that drains from the eye.
- Latanoprost ophthalmic is used to treat glaucoma and high pressure in the eye(s).
- Latanoprost ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not use latanoprost ophthalmic?
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history. If you have any other medical conditions, you may require special monitoring during treatment with latanoprost ophthalmic.
- Latanoprost ophthalmic is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether latanoprost ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Do not use latanoprost ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- It is not known whether latanoprost passes into breast milk. Do not use latanoprost ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use latanoprost ophthalmic?
- Use latanoprost ophthalmic eyedrops exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse to explain them to you.
- Latanoprost ophthalmic is usually used once a day, one drop in the affected eye or eyes, in the evening. Since latanoprost ophthalmic is used regularly, try to make applying them a part of your nightly routine. Follow your doctor's instructions.
- Wash your hands before and after using the eyedrops.
- Latanoprost ophthalmic contains a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), so do not wear soft contact lenses when applying this medication. Contact lenses can be inserted 15 minutes after application of the drops.
- To apply the eyedrops:
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Steady the hand holding the bottle by placing your thumb against your brow or the bridge of your nose. Look up and away from the dropper. Gently press or lightly tap the side of the bottle to allow only a single drop of medicine to fall into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid. Do not allow the dropper to touch your eye. Instill the number of drops prescribed by your doctor. Close your eye for approximately 2 to 3 minutes. If you are using drops in both eyes, repeat this procedure in the other eye.
- Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye possibly resulting in a loss of vision.
- Contact your doctor if you if you experience any type of eye condition or if you need to have eye surgery.
- Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it.
- If you are also using another type of eye medication, apply it at least 5 minutes before or after a dose of latanoprost ophthalmic, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
- Store latanoprost ophthalmic in the refrigerator before the bottle is opened.
- Once the bottle is opened, latanoprost ophthalmic can be stored at room temperature up to 77 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 weeks. Keep the bottle properly capped.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Flush the eye with water and seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of a latanoprost ophthalmic overdose include burning, irritation, and redness of the eyes.
What should I avoid while using latanoprost ophthalmic?
- Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.
- Latanoprost ophthalmic contains a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), so do not wear soft contact lenses when applying this medication. Contact lenses can be inserted 15 minutes after application of the drops.
- If you are also using another type of eye medication, apply it at least 5 minutes before or after a dose of latanoprost ophthalmic, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.