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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Prostaglandin Analog [EPC]
Latanoprost is a potent prostaglandin F2-alpha analog used primarily to reduce elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension by increasing the uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor.
Name
Latanoprost
Raw Name
LATANOPROST
Category
Prostaglandin Analog [EPC]
Drug Count
5
Variant Count
18
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
RxCUI
314072, 542527, 2056743, 2056748, 2119701, 2119706, 2642284
UNII
6Z5B6HVF6O, VL756B1K0U
About Latanoprost
Latanoprost is a potent prostaglandin F2-alpha analog used primarily to reduce elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension by increasing the uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor.
Detailed information about Latanoprost
References used for this content
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Latanoprost.
In clinical terms, Latanoprost is a lipid compound that mimics the action of naturally occurring prostaglandins in the eye. Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the health of which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused by an abnormally high pressure in your eye. Latanoprost works by helping the fluid (aqueous humor) drain from the eye, thereby lowering the internal pressure and preventing further damage to the optic nerve. It is often prescribed when other medications have not lowered the eye pressure enough or when patients cannot tolerate other types of eye drops.
The mechanism of action for Latanoprost is centered on its ability to enhance the drainage of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye. Aqueous humor is the clear fluid that fills the space between the lens and the cornea. In a healthy eye, the production of this fluid is balanced by its drainage. However, in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, this balance is disrupted, leading to a buildup of pressure.
Latanoprost acts as a selective agonist at the Prostanoid FP receptor. Upon topical administration to the eye, Latanoprost—which is an isopropyl ester—is a prodrug that is inactive on its own. It must be hydrolyzed by esterases in the cornea to its biologically active form, Latanoprost acid. Once activated, the Latanoprost acid binds to FP receptors located primarily in the ciliary muscle and the trabecular meshwork.
The primary pathway through which Latanoprost reduces IOP is the uveoscleral outflow pathway. It is believed that Latanoprost reduces the resistance to fluid flow by altering the extracellular matrix of the ciliary muscle. By stimulating the production of matrix metalloproteinases (enzymes that break down collagen), Latanoprost increases the space between ciliary muscle fibers, allowing more aqueous humor to exit the eye through the uveoscleral route. Unlike some other glaucoma medications, Latanoprost does not significantly affect the production of aqueous humor; its efficacy is almost entirely derived from improving drainage.
Understanding the pharmacokinetics of Latanoprost is essential for optimizing its clinical use and managing potential systemic effects.
Latanoprost is FDA-approved for the following indications:
Off-label uses occasionally include the treatment of certain types of secondary glaucoma, though this is always at the discretion of a specialist.
Latanoprost is available in the following formulations:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Latanoprost is right for your specific condition. Regular eye exams are necessary to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment and the health of your optic nerve.
The standard adult dosage for Latanoprost is highly standardized across clinical practice for the treatment of both open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
The safety and effectiveness of Latanoprost in pediatric patients have not been established by the FDA for all age groups. However, some pediatric ophthalmologists may use it off-label for childhood glaucoma.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment. Because Latanoprost is administered topically and undergoes rapid systemic metabolism, the systemic concentration is negligible and unlikely to be affected by kidney function.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with hepatic impairment. While the liver is involved in the beta-oxidation of the active acid, the total systemic load of the drug is too low to necessitate dosing changes in those with liver disease.
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger patients. Standard adult dosing applies.
Proper administration is vital to ensure the drug reaches the target tissues and to minimize systemic absorption.
If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regularly scheduled time (the following evening). Do not double the dose to catch up, as this can interfere with the pressure-lowering effect.
An overdose of Latanoprost eye drops is unlikely to cause life-threatening symptoms. However, if multiple drops are placed in the eye, you may experience significant eye irritation, redness, and blurred vision.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions precisely. Do not adjust your dose or stop the medication without medical guidance, as this could lead to a rapid increase in eye pressure and permanent vision loss.
Latanoprost is generally well-tolerated, but because it is a prostaglandin analog, it can cause specific local changes to the eye and surrounding tissues.
While Latanoprost is a topical medication, certain serious ocular conditions can arise that require urgent evaluation.
> Warning: Stop taking Latanoprost and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
No FDA black box warnings for Latanoprost. However, the manufacturer includes strong precautions regarding iris pigmentation and macular edema in the professional labeling.
Report any unusual symptoms, especially changes in your vision or the appearance of your eyes, to your healthcare provider immediately.
Latanoprost is a potent medication that requires careful monitoring by an ophthalmologist or optometrist. The most important safety consideration for patients is the potential for permanent cosmetic changes to the eye and the risk of ocular inflammation. Patients must be informed that if only one eye is being treated, the color change, eyelash growth, and skin darkening may only occur in that eye, leading to a permanent difference in appearance between the two eyes (heterochromia).
No FDA black box warnings for Latanoprost.
Patients using Latanoprost require regular follow-up appointments with their eye care provider. Monitoring typically includes:
Latanoprost may cause temporary blurred vision immediately after the drops are instilled. Patients should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or engage in hazardous activities until their vision has cleared. This usually takes only a few minutes.
There are no known direct interactions between Latanoprost and alcohol. However, excessive alcohol consumption can sometimes affect intraocular pressure or general eye health. It is generally safe to consume alcohol in moderation while using Latanoprost eye drops.
Do not stop using Latanoprost without consulting your doctor. Glaucoma is often a 'silent' disease with no symptoms until vision loss occurs. If you stop the medication, your intraocular pressure will likely return to its previous high levels, putting you at risk for permanent optic nerve damage and blindness. There is no 'withdrawal syndrome' associated with Latanoprost, but the rebound in eye pressure is a serious clinical concern.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially any history of eye inflammation or herpes infections, with your healthcare provider before starting Latanoprost.
While Latanoprost has few systemic interactions, certain ocular combinations are avoided:
Since Latanoprost is administered topically and systemic absorption is minimal, there are no known interactions with specific foods, including grapefruit, dairy, or high-fat meals. Caffeine consumption can transiently increase intraocular pressure, so patients with glaucoma are often advised to limit excessive caffeine intake, but this is not a direct interaction with the medication itself.
Latanoprost is not known to interfere with standard blood or urine laboratory tests. Because it does not reach significant systemic concentrations, it does not affect liver function tests, kidney function tests, or blood counts.
Mechanism of Interactions: Most interactions with Latanoprost are pharmacodynamic (how the drugs affect the eye) rather than pharmacokinetic (how the body processes the drug). For example, the interaction with other prostaglandins is a receptor-level interference where the pressure-lowering effect is blunted by over-saturation of the FP receptors.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, including other eye drops or ointments.
Latanoprost must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
In these conditions, the risks and benefits must be carefully weighed by a specialist:
Patients who have had a severe allergic reaction to other prostaglandin analogs—such as Bimatoprost (Lumigan), Travoprost (Travatan Z), or Tafluprost (Zioptan)—may also be sensitive to Latanoprost. While they are chemically distinct, they belong to the same pharmacological class, and cross-reactivity is possible.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any previous eye surgeries or infections, before prescribing Latanoprost.
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Latanoprost use in pregnant women. In animal studies (rabbits), Latanoprost was found to cause embryocidal effects (fetal death) when administered systemically at doses much higher than the human ocular dose.
It is not known whether Latanoprost or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. However, many drugs are excreted in milk, and the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants exists.
Latanoprost is not FDA-approved for use in pediatric patients. The primary concern in children is the potential for permanent iris color change, which may be more distressing or noticeable in a developing child. Some clinical trials have looked at Latanoprost for pediatric glaucoma, showing it may be less effective in children with primary congenital glaucoma compared to adults with open-angle glaucoma.
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly (65 years and older) and younger patients. However, elderly patients may have more difficulty with the manual dexterity required to administer eye drops. They are also more likely to be on multiple medications (polypharmacy), making the 5-minute rule between different eye drops even more important.
Latanoprost has not been specifically studied in patients with renal impairment. However, given that the systemic concentration of the drug is nearly undetectable following ocular administration, no dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with kidney disease or those on dialysis.
Latanoprost has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment. While the liver is responsible for the metabolism of any drug that reaches the blood, the total amount of Latanoprost in a single drop is so small (1.5 micrograms) that even severely impaired liver function is unlikely to result in toxic systemic levels.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should always consult their obstetrician and ophthalmologist before using any medicated eye drops.
Latanoprost is a prostanoid selective FP receptor agonist. It is a synthetic analog of Prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α). The drug is administered as an isopropyl ester prodrug, which is inactive. As it passes through the cornea, it is hydrolyzed by esterase enzymes into Latanoprost acid, the active moiety.
The active Latanoprost acid binds to FP receptors in the ciliary muscle. This binding triggers a signaling cascade that increases the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). These enzymes remodel the extracellular matrix between the ciliary muscle fibers, reducing the hydraulic resistance of the uveoscleral pathway. Consequently, the aqueous humor drains more easily from the eye into the suprachoroidal space and then into the venous circulation of the ciliary body and choroid. This lowers intraocular pressure without significantly affecting aqueous humor production or the trabecular (conventional) outflow pathway.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | High ocular penetration (as prodrug) |
| Protein Binding | 87% (Latanoprost acid in plasma) |
| Half-life | 17 minutes (Plasma half-life of active acid) |
| Tmax | 2 hours (in aqueous humor) |
| Metabolism | Hydrolysis in cornea; Beta-oxidation in liver |
| Excretion | Renal >88%, Fecal <5% |
Latanoprost is classified as a Prostaglandin Analog. Related medications in this class include Bimatoprost (Lumigan), Travoprost (Travatan Z), and Tafluprost (Zioptan). These drugs have largely replaced older classes like beta-blockers (Timolol) and alpha-agonists (Brimonidine) as the first-line therapy for glaucoma due to their superior efficacy and once-daily dosing.
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Latanoprost
Latanoprost is primarily used to treat high pressure inside the eye, a condition known as ocular hypertension, and open-angle glaucoma. By reducing this pressure, the medication helps prevent damage to the optic nerve, which is essential for maintaining vision. It is a member of the prostaglandin analog class and works by increasing the natural drainage of fluid from the eye. It is typically prescribed as a once-daily eye drop to be used in the evening. Regular use is necessary to keep eye pressure stable and prevent permanent vision loss.
The most common side effects of Latanoprost include eye redness (conjunctival hyperemia), which affects about one-third of patients, and a feeling of stinging or itching in the eye. Many patients also notice that their eyelashes become longer, thicker, and darker over time. A unique side effect is a gradual, permanent change in eye color, where the iris becomes more brown. Some people may also notice the skin on their eyelids darkening or a temporary blurring of vision right after using the drops. Most of these effects are mild, but the change in eye color is permanent even after stopping the drug.
There are no known direct drug interactions between Latanoprost eye drops and alcohol consumption. Because Latanoprost is applied topically to the eye and very little reaches the bloodstream, alcohol does not interfere with how the medication works. However, it is always wise to consume alcohol in moderation, as overall health can impact eye health. If you experience dizziness or headaches as a side effect of Latanoprost, alcohol could potentially make these symptoms worse. Always follow the general health advice provided by your eye care specialist regarding lifestyle choices and glaucoma management.
Latanoprost is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, meaning it should only be used if the potential benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. Animal studies have shown some risks at very high doses, but there is limited data on human pregnancy. If a pregnant woman must use Latanoprost, doctors often recommend 'nasolacrimal occlusion'—pressing on the tear duct for two minutes after applying the drop—to minimize the amount of drug that enters the bloodstream. You must inform your ophthalmologist immediately if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. They may suggest alternative treatments or monitor your pregnancy more closely.
Latanoprost begins to lower intraocular pressure approximately 3 to 4 hours after you place the drop in your eye. The maximum effect, or the 'peak' of the medication's power, is usually reached about 8 to 12 hours after administration. Because the pressure-lowering effect lasts for at least 24 hours, it only needs to be used once a day. Most doctors recommend using it in the evening so that the peak effect occurs during the early morning hours when eye pressure tends to be highest. It may take several weeks of consistent use to see the full long-term benefits on your eye pressure levels.
You should never stop taking Latanoprost suddenly without first consulting your eye doctor. Glaucoma is a chronic condition that requires continuous management; if you stop the medication, your eye pressure will likely rise back to dangerous levels within a few days. This increase in pressure often happens without any pain or noticeable symptoms but can lead to permanent damage to the optic nerve and vision loss. If you are experiencing side effects that make you want to stop, talk to your doctor about switching to a different medication. Consistency is the most important factor in preventing blindness from glaucoma.
If you miss a dose of Latanoprost, you should wait and take your next dose at the normally scheduled time the following evening. Do not use extra drops or 'double up' the next day to make up for the missed dose. Interestingly, using Latanoprost more than once a day can actually make it less effective at lowering eye pressure and may increase side effects like redness. Simply get back on your regular schedule as soon as you remember. If you find yourself frequently forgetting doses, consider using a reminder app or placing the bottle near an item you use every evening, like your toothbrush.
Weight gain is not a known or reported side effect of Latanoprost eye drops. Because the medication is applied topically to the eye and undergoes very rapid metabolism once it enters the systemic circulation, it does not have the systemic metabolic effects associated with weight changes. If you are experiencing unexplained weight gain while using Latanoprost, it is likely due to another cause, such as diet, lifestyle changes, or a different medication. You should discuss any significant changes in your weight or general health with your primary care physician to determine the underlying cause.
Latanoprost can be taken with many other medications, but specific precautions apply to other eye drops. If you use other medicated eye drops, you must wait at least 5 minutes between using Latanoprost and the other product to ensure both are properly absorbed. You should avoid using two different prostaglandin eye drops at the same time, as this can actually cause eye pressure to increase. Additionally, drops containing the preservative thimerosal can react with Latanoprost and should be used at least 5 minutes apart. Always provide your doctor with a full list of all prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements you use.
Yes, Latanoprost is widely available as a generic medication and is typically much more affordable than the original brand-name version, Xalatan. Generic Latanoprost contains the same active ingredient at the same 0.005% concentration and is required by the FDA to meet the same standards for safety and effectiveness as the brand-name drug. Many insurance plans prefer the generic version. When switching from brand to generic, the bottle or dropper may look slightly different, but the way you use the medication remains exactly the same. Always check with your pharmacist to ensure you are receiving the correct formulation prescribed by your doctor.