Latanoprost
Generic Details
Generic Name
Latanoprost
Other Names
Drug Class
- Prostaglandin Analogues
Chemical Formula
C26H40O5
Molecular Weight
432.6 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Latanoprost is a prodrug that is enzymatically hydrolyzed to the active form, which is a selective agonist for the prostaglandin F2alpha receptor. It works by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor from the eye, thereby reducing intraocular pressure.
Indications
- Treatment of open-angle glaucoma
- Ocular hypertension
Common Dosage Forms
- Ophthalmic solution
Typical Dosage
- One drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children
Geriatric Dosage
- No dosage adjustment necessary based on age
Side Effects
- Blurred vision
- Eye irritation
- Itchy eyes
- Changes in eyelash growth
- Increased pigmentation of the iris or skin around the eye
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to latanoprost or any component of the formulation
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Use with caution, benefits may outweigh risks
Lactation Safety
- Use caution, not well studied in breastfeeding women
Drug Interactions
- No significant drug interactions reported with ophthalmic use
Overdose Symptoms
- No specific overdose symptoms reported
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote, treatment is supportive
Storage Conditions
- Store between 2°C to 25°C (36°F to 77°F), protect from light
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Absorbed through the cornea, partially metabolized in the cornea and systemic circulation
- Distribution: Highly bound to plasma proteins
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver to the active form
- Excretion: Excreted primarily in the urine
Precautions
- Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination
- Use with caution in patients with a history of intraocular inflammation or edema
Warnings
- May gradually change eye color, eyelid skin color, and eyelashes, usually reversible upon discontinuation