Xalatan

Generic name: LatanoprostBrand names: Xalatan

Why is Xalatan prescribed?

Xalatan is used to relieve high pressure within the eye (a hallmark of the condition known as open-angle glaucoma). It can be prescribed alone or with other glaucoma medications.

Most important fact about Xalatan

Be careful not to let the tip of the Xalatan bottle touch your eye or anything else. Otherwise, the contents could become contaminated. A contaminated solution can cause an eye infection and lead to serious damage, including loss of vision.

How should you take Xalatan?

Use Xalatan exactly as prescribed. It should be applied only once a day; more frequent administration may reduce its effectiveness. Apply one drop to the eye in the evening. If you are using other eye drops to lower pressure, allow at least 5 minutes between applications of the two medications. Contact lenses should be removed before the drug is applied. Wait 15 minutes before reinserting them.

• If you miss a dose...Apply it as soon as possible. If you don't remember until the next day, skip the dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never double the dose.

• Storage instructions...Store unopened bottles in the refrigerator. Once opened, the bottles may be stored at room temperature for up to 6 weeks. Protect from light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Be especially quick to report pinkeye or any effects on the eyelids. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue using Xalatan.

• Side effects may include...Bloodshot eyes, blurred vision, burning, foreign body sensation, increased pigmentation of the iris, inflammatory disease of the cornea, itching, stinging, upper respiratory infection

Why should Xalatan not be prescribed?

Do not use Xalatan if you are sensitive or allergic to any of its ingredients.

Special warnings about Xalatan

Xalatan may gradually turn the eye's iris brown. This change may not be noticed for months or years. Its long-term effects are unknown, but it may be permanent. Ask your doctor about the possibility of mismatched eye color if you will be treating only one eye with Xalatan.

Xalatan may make the eyelids darker. It can gradually change the eyelashes and fine body hair, increasing the length, thickness, color, and number of lashes or hairs. The eyelashes may also start growing in the wrong direction, possibly resulting in irritation to the eye.

If your eye sustains an injury or becomes infected, or you have eye surgery, you may need to start a new bottle of Xalatan. Be sure to check with your doctor.

Xalatan may cause blurred vision. Make certain it does not have this effect on you before you attempt to drive.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Xalatan

Mixing Xalatan with eye drops containing thiomersal can cause the formation of solid substances in the eye. To avoid this problem, administer the drops at least 5 minutes apart.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Xalatan during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Xalatan makes it way into breast milk. If you are nursing and need to use Xalatan, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding while using the medication.

Recommended dosage for Xalatan

The usual dose is 1 drop in the affected eye once every evening.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Xalatan overdose may include:Bloodshot eyes, eye irritation