Medications
PROSTAGLANDIN ANALOGS/OCULAR HYPOTENSIVE LIPIDS
Commonly Used Drugs
Latanoprost (Xalatan)
Bimatoprost (Lumigan)
Travoprost (Travatan)
Unoprostone (Rescula)
Uses of This Medicine
Prostaglandin analogs and ocular hypotensive lipids are used to
lower eye pressure in eyes with glaucoma. They may be used alone or
in combination with other medications. Prostaglandin analogs and
ocular hypotensive lipids lower eye pressure by increasing the
drainage of aqueous humor (eye fluid) from the eye.
Before Using This Medicine
Be sure to tell your doctor if you:
- Are allergic to any medicines
- Are using contact lenses
- Are pregnant or breast feeding
- Have any other health problems
- Are using any other prescription or non-prescription
medications
Dosage and Administration
The usual dose is 1 drop in the affected eye at bedtime. Use
this medicine only as directed by your doctor.
Side Effects
(This is a list of the most common side effects; for a
complete list, see the insert provided with your medication)
The most frequent side effects are temporary stinging and burning
and blurred vision upon instillation. Some patients also have a
slight redness of the eye upon waking in the morning. This is
normal, and usually clears up after a couple of hours. In patients
with a hazel-colored iris, there is a 15% chance of darkening of the
iris. If this occurs, the eye color changes from hazel to brown.
This only occurs in certain eyes. Ask your doctor if you are at risk
for this change in eye color. Other side effects can include growth
of the eye lashes, darkening of the skin around the eyes, and
inflammation inside the eyes.
Some patients develop flu-like symptoms, skin rash, or muscle and
joint pains.
Special Precautions
If you notice a persistent change or worsening of your vision,
especially if you have had prior eye surgery, notify your doctor
immediately.
You must keep your regularly scheduled appointment with your eye
doctor so the effect of this medicine can be monitored. All
medicines should be taken exactly as prescribed. If you experience
any problems with this medication, call your doctor immediately.
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