What is Xalatan®?

Xalatan® is a brand name for the generic drug latanoprost. It is prescribed to patients with high ocular vision, which is high pressure within the eye. This occurs with conditions such as glaucoma or ocular hypertension and if the pressure is not reduced, the patient can suffer from permanent vision loss. Xalatan® works by encouraging the drainage channels in the eyes to open or unclog, which allows fluid to drain so that the ocular pressure decreases.

Patients should be aware that Xalatan® is not a cure for glaucoma or other eye conditions. It will only help manage ocular pressure so long as the patient continues to use it. This medication is available in the form of eyedrops that are typically applied to each eye once daily. Those who are prescribed Xalatan® along with other eyedrops or ointments should wait a minimum of five minutes between applying the different medications.

Before applying the eyedrops, the patient must always wash his hands thoroughly. He must then stand in front of a mirror and tilt his head back, although some people may find it easier to lie down. Holding the dropper with one hand, he will then pull down the lower eyelid with his other hand, forming a “pocket.” The patient must then place the exact prescribed number of drops into the pocket, rather than directly on the eye. Using more drops than prescribed may actually lessen the efficacy of the medication.

Patients should then close the eye and lightly press the lower lid shut for several seconds. The patient must avoid blinking. Excess medication that spills onto the cheek may be wiped off with a tissue, however the eye should not be disturbed. During this process, the dropper must not touch any other surface, including the patient's eyelid or eyeball. After use, the dropper should be immediately re-capped.

Xalatan® should never be applied while the patient is wearing contact lenses, as the lenses may absorb the drug. Patients who wear contact lenses must wait at least 15 minutes after applying the drops to insert the lenses. Before using these drops, people should discuss their other medications and supplements with the doctor to avoid potential interactions. Other medical conditions, such as kidney or liver disease, should also be disclosed. Xalatan® may cause birth defects in an unborn baby, however it is unknown whether it may pass into breast milk.

People should be aware of possible side effects from Xalatan®, which may include blurred vision, dry eyes, and burning, stinging, or itching of the eyes. The eyelids may become red and irritated, and Xalatan® may also alter the pigmentation of the iris, causing it to very gradually turn brown. The eyelashes may also change, turning thicker and darker.