Latanoprost

What is latanoprost?

Latanoprost is a prescription eye drop used to lower pressure inside the eye. It belongs to a class of medications called prostaglandin analogues, which help slow disease progression by improving fluid drainage from the eye. It is known by brand names like Xalatan and Monopost[1].  

What is latanoprost used for?

Latanoprost is mainly prescribed for ocular hypertension (raised eye pressure) and open-angle glaucoma (the most common form of glaucoma). These conditions can lead to optic nerve damage and eventual vision loss if left untreated[1]. 

How does latanoprost work?

Latanoprost helps lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing the outflow of aqueous humour – the fluid inside the eye – into the bloodstream. This reduces the risk of damage to the optic nerve and slows the progression of glaucoma or ocular hypertension[1].  

Who can take latanoprost?

Latanoprost is suitable for most adults and children, including babies. However, you should speak to your doctor if you[1]: 

• Have had an allergic reaction to latanoprost or similar medicines 

• Have eye problems, infections or inflammation 

• Have uncontrolled or severe asthma 

• Have a history of eye surgery or herpes simplex infections of the eye 

• Wear contact lenses (you can still use it, but must remove lenses before applying)  

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of latanoprost?

There are 50 micrograms of latanoprost in 1ml. Latanoprost is typically used as follows[1]: 

• Apply 1 drop in the affected eye(s) once daily – preferably in the evening 

• Available in multi-dose bottles or single-use droppers 

• Do not exceed one drop per day, as this may reduce its effectiveness  

How do you take latanoprost?

To apply the drops correctly[1]: 

• Wash your hands thoroughly 

• Remove contact lenses (wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them) 

• Tilt your head back and gently pull down the lower eyelid 

• Apply one drop into the eye without touching the dropper to your eye 

• Close your eye and gently press on the inner corner for 1 minute 

• Wipe away any excess liquid 

• Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye drops 

Use the latanoprost eye drops within the expiry date on the bottle and within 4 weeks of opening. The single-dose droppers come in sachets. Once you open the packet, use the droppers within 10 days. Do not use the droppers after the expiry date[1]. 

Can you stop taking latanoprost?

Do not stop using latanoprost without first speaking to your doctor or pharmacist. Discontinuing it may cause your eye pressure to rise again, which can lead to permanent vision damage[1].  

What do you do if you take too much latanoprost?

If you use more than one drop accidentally, it’s unlikely to cause harm. However, do not apply extra to make up for a missed dose. If you feel unwell or experience any side effects, contact your doctor or pharmacist[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take latanoprost?

If you forget to use your eye drops[1]: 

• Skip the missed dose 

• Use your next dose at the usual time 

• Do not double the dose to catch up 

How do I store latanoprost?

To keep latanoprost effective and safe[1]: 

• Unopened bottles: Store in the fridge between 2°C and 8°C 

• After opening: Store at room temperature (below 25°C) and use within 4 weeks 

• Single-dose units: Use within 10 days of opening the sachet 

• Keep out of direct light and reach of children  

What medicines can’t you take with latanoprost?

Avoid using other prostaglandin analogue eye drops at the same time (e.g. travoprost, tafluprost, bimatoprost), as this can increase eye pressure[1]. 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of latanoprost?

Common side effects include[1]: 

• Eye irritation (burning, itching, or stinging) 

• Redness of the eye 

• Inflamed eyelid 

• Eye infection 

• Light sensitivity 

• Darkening of the iris (often permanent) 

• Changes to eyelashes (length, thickness, number) 

• Temporary blurred vision 

Rare but serious side effects include[1]: 

• Chest pain 

• Fast or irregular heartbeat 

• Severe eye pain or sudden changes in vision  

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

 If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about latanoprost

How quickly does latanoprost work? 
It usually begins to reduce eye pressure within 3-4 hours, with peak effects seen in 8-12 hours[1]. 

Can I use latanoprost with contact lenses? 
Yes, but you must remove your lenses before use and wait 15 minutes before reinserting them[1]. 

Can I drive after using latanoprost? 
Wait until any blurred vision clears before driving or using machinery[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol while using it? 
Yes, there are no known interactions between alcohol and latanoprost[1]. 

Will latanoprost change my eye colour? 
It may cause permanent darkening of the iris, especially in eyes with mixed colours (e.g., green-brown or blue-brown)[1]. 

Can I use latanoprost during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 
It is generally not recommended. Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding[1]. 

How long will I need to use it? 
Latanoprost is often prescribed as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor decides otherwise[1]. 

Can I travel with latanoprost? 
Yes, but check the product literature for storage instructions. Some brands do not require to be stored in the fridge before use. Once opened, they can be stored at room temperature[1].