Travoprost is an ophthalmic solution that can lower pressure inside the eye. A medical provider may recommend it to a patient with intraocular hypertension or glaucoma, both of which can cause damage to the eye which may result in vision loss or other problems. It is taken in the form of eye drops delivered directly to the affected eye, at intervals determined by the specifics of the patient’s case. The length of treatment may vary, depending on whether the patient responds to the drug and if side effects develop.
This medication promotes the elimination of excess fluid from the eye to control the pressure. Patients on travoprost can develop dry eye as well as blurred vision in some cases. They are also at risk of allergic reactions, either to the medication itself or to one of the carrying agents used, and they should make sure their doctors know their medical history before taking the drug. Allergies can cause inflammation and irritation around the eye as well as reactions like rashes elsewhere on the body. Color changes, usually a darkening of the eye and surrounding area, have also been known to occur.
Patients with existing eye disease may need to be careful when taking travoprost. Their health care providers can evaluate them to determine whether the medication will be safe. If they take other eye drops to treat their eye conditions, it is advisable to allow the travoprost at least five minutes to settle in before applying another medication. Using too many eye drops at once may not leave the eye enough time to absorb the medication.
Liver and kidney reactions have been recorded with this medication and its safety in pregnancy is not known. It is advisable to wash the hands thoroughly before and after taking travoprost to prevent infection and ensure the medication isn’t transferred to any surfaces in the patient’s vicinity. Patients should also keep the dropper clean, as a contaminated dropper could cause an eye infection. In the event the dropper comes into contact with a surface like a table or the patient’s face, a pharmacy should be able to provide a replacement so the patient can safely finish the bottle of medication.
While in treatment for conditions associated with high intraocular pressure, patients may need to see doctors for regular followups, to check on the pressure and any side effects. They should be alert to signs the symptoms may be getting worse, such as blurry vision, dark spots, and other vision changes. These issues can be reported to determine if the patient needs an office visit for an evaluation. Vision damage can onset quickly and may be permanent in nature, making it very important to be proactive about any signs of complications.