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Latanoprost

Pronounced

"lay-TAN-oh-prost"

Common brand names:

Monoprost, Xalatan

Uses

Latanoprost is used to treat high pressure inside the eye due to glaucoma (open angle type) or other eye diseases (such as ocular hypertension). It is similar to a natural chemical in the body (prostaglandin) and works by regulating the flow of fluid within the eye which results in lower pressure. Lowering high pressure inside the eye helps to prevent blindness.

How to Use This Medication

Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the evening. Do not use latanoprost more often because it will not work as well.

To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.

If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using this medication. Wait at least 15 minutes before replacing your contact lenses.

Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch. Look downward, gently close your eyes, and place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose). Apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes before opening your eyes. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink or rub your eye. Repeat these steps if your dose is for more than one drop. If directed to use this medication in both eyes, repeat these steps for your other eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.

Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Keep using latanoprost even if you feel well. Most people with glaucoma or high pressure in the eye do not feel sick.

If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other products. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye.