Latanoprost
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analogue medication, widely recognised by the brand name Xalatan. It is primarily used to address Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension. This active compound is available as a single formulation, used to lower internal eye pressure.
Medicine containing Latanoprost
Key points
- By promoting fluid drainage from the eye, it lowers internal pressure and helps protect the optic nerve from damage.
- Applies only as eye drops and treats both glaucoma and ocular hypertension by targeting elevated pressure inside the eye.
- Mild eye colour change, stinging or redness are common, and some people also notice changes in eyelash length or thickness.
What is Latanoprost?
Latanoprost acts as a synthetic prostaglandin F2-alpha analogue. By increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye, it reduces the pressure that potentially damages the optic nerve. It serves as a standardised approach for long-term management of conditions related to excessive ocular fluid retention.
What Latanoprost is used for
This medication addresses chronic conditions where intraocular pressure is elevated. Beyond managing primary Glaucoma, it is used to treat Ocular Hypertension to prevent or slow vision loss.
Latanoprost brands and forms
Treatment often involves selecting between established brands like Xalatan and Monopost, or their generic equivalents. This ingredient is specifically formulated as eye drops, which provides targeted, direct application to the eye. For a wider range of supplies, browse our Eye Care collection.
Safety overview for Latanoprost
What to check before using this medicine
Ensure you have confirmed the specific grade of eye pressure with a professional. Review the product packaging for inactive ingredients if you have known sensitivities to preservatives or buffers often found in ophthalmic solutions.
Possible reactions and tolerability
Common reactions include a mild change in eye colour, stinging upon application or redness. Some individuals may experience changes in the length, thickness or colour of eyelashes. These effects are usually local.
Interactions and health factors
Latanoprost may interact with other ophthalmic preparations containing thiomersal. If you are using multiple types of eye drops, space their application by several minutes to ensure proper absorption. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.
Further reading
FAQ
What is latanoprost used for?
Latanoprost is used to treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension by lowering raised pressure inside the eye. It helps protect the optic nerve and may prevent or slow vision loss.
How does latanoprost work?
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analogue. It works by increasing the outflow of aqueous humour from the eye, which lowers intraocular pressure.
How long does latanoprost take to work?
Latanoprost starts working within 3 to 4 hours, and its effect lasts about 24 hours.
What are the side effects of latanoprost?
Common effects include eye irritation, a foreign body sensation, dry eyes, stinging, redness, blurred vision and eyelid pigment changes. More serious problems such as macular oedema and iridocyclitis need immediate medical attention, so speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.
Who should not take latanoprost?
Latanoprost should not be used by anyone with a hypersensitivity to latanoprost, and it is not suitable in pregnancy. A doctor or pharmacist can advise on your own situation.
Which latanoprost products does AU Chemist sell?
Products containing latanoprost include Xalatan. Compare forms, strengths and packs in the listings above.
Which brands contain latanoprost?
Besides the products listed here, latanoprost is sold under brand names such as Monopost. Names differ from country to country, so the active ingredient is the surest way to compare.
Where can I buy latanoprost online?
Our pharmacy partners ship from India to Australia in discreet packaging. Standard Airmail takes up to 3 weeks; Express Tracked Courier takes up to 1 week.
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