Medications
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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
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.
