What is Xalatan?
Xalatan is an ophthalmic solution used to lower intraocular pressure in people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Xalatan works by increasing the outflow of aqueous fluid from the eye.
Xalatan (latanoprost) is a prostaglandin analog, meaning it is similar to a natural substance found in the body. Prostaglandins are thought to play a role in regulating the flow of fluid in and out of the eye. By increasing the outflow of fluid, Xalatan can help reduce intraocular pressure.
Intraocular pressure is the pressure within the eye that helps keep it in shape and functioning properly. When this pressure becomes too high, it can damage the optic nerve, which transmits signals from the eye to the brain. This damage can lead to vision loss and even blindness.
Health Benefits
Xalatan is used to treat open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It can help to reduce intraocular pressure, which may help to prevent or slow down the progression of these conditions.
In clinical studies, Xalatan has been shown to be effective in reducing intraocular pressure in people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. In some cases, it can also help improve vision.
Side Effects and Precautions
Xalatan is generally well tolerated, but it can cause some side effects. The most common side effects include:
eye irritation
eye redness
dry eyes
itching eyes
blurred vision
These side effects are usually mild and temporary. More serious side effects are rare, but they can occur. These include:
eye pain
changes in vision
swelling of the eye
increased intraocular pressure
If you experience any of these side effects, stop using Xalatan and contact your doctor right away.
Xalatan is not suitable for everyone. Tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions, including:
eye problems (e.g., glaucoma, cataracts)
liver disease
kidney disease
high blood pressure
diabetes
history of stroke or heart attack
if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Dosage and Administration
Xalatan is available in two strengths: 0.005% and 0.02%. The recommended dosage is one drop in each eye once daily, preferably in the evening.
To apply Xalatan, start by washing your hands. Remove the cap from the bottle and tilt your head back. Gently pull down on your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the bottle close to your eye and squeeze out one drop of solution. Close your eye and press gently on the inner corner for two minutes. Replace the cap on the bottle.
Wipe any excess solution from your face with a clean tissue. Do not touch the tip of the bottle to your eye or anything else, as this could contaminate the solution.
If you miss a dose of Xalatan, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses of Xalatan at the same time.
Xalatan must be used regularly to be effective. It may take several weeks or longer before you notice an improvement in your intraocular pressure. Do not stop using Xalatan unless your doctor tells you to.
Interactions
Xalatan can interact with some medications, herbs, and supplements. Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:
beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers)
certain types of diuretics (water pills)
steroids
This is not a complete list of interactions. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the drugs, herbs, and supplements you take, even if they seem unrelated to Xalatan.
Pharmacokinetics
Xalatan is absorbed into the bloodstream from the eye. It reaches peak levels in about two hours. The half-life of Xalatan is 18 to 24 hours, which means it stays in the body for about one day.
Xalatan is eliminated from the body through urine and feces. About 60% of an administered dose is excreted in urine and 40% in feces.