Latanoprost
Latanoprost (Xalatan)
Latanoprost
(lah- TAH-noh-prost)
Pregnancy Category: C Xalatan (Rx)

Classification: Prostaglandin agonist

Action/Kinetics: A prostaglandin F ₂þ analog that decreases intraocular pressure by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor. Absorbed through the cornea where it is hydrolyzed by esterases to the active acid. Peak levels in aqueous humor: 2 hr. Onset: 3-4 hr. Maximum effect: 8-12 hr. The active acid is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine. t 1/2, elimination: 17 min.

Uses: To reduce intraocular pressure in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension in clients who are intolerant of other drugs to reduce intraocular pressure or who have been unresponsive to other drug therapy.

Contraindications: Use while wearing contact lenses.

Special Concerns: May gradually change eye color by increasing the amount of brown pigment in the iris; the resultant color changes may be permanent. Use with caution during lactation. The drug product contains benzalkonium chloride, which may be absorbed by contact lenses. Safety and efficacy have not been determined in children.

Side Effects: Ophthalmic: Blurred vision, burning, stinging, conjunctival hyperemia, foreign body sensation, itching, increased pigmentation of the iris, punctate epithelial keratopathy, dry eye, excessive tearing, eye pain, lid crusting, lid edema, lid erythema, lid discomfort or pain, photophobia, conjunctivitis, diplopia, discharge from the eye, retinal artery embolus, retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage from diabetic retinopathy (rare). Systemic: URTI (e.g., cold, flu), pain in muscles/joints/back, chest pain/angina pectoris, rash, allergic skin reactions.

Drug Interactions: A precipitate may form if lanatoprost is used with eye drops containing thimerosal.

How Supplied: Ophthalmic solution: 0.005%

Dosage
?Solution, 0.005% Elevated intraocular pressure.
1 gtt (1.5 mcg) in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening. More frequent use may decrease the intraocular pressure lowering effect.