Xalatan (Latanoprost Ophthalmic) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 27, 2012

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Glaucoma »

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a disease of the major nerve of vision, called the optic nerve. The optic nerve receives light-generated nerve impulses from the retina and transmits these to the brain, where we recognize those electrical signals as vision. Glaucoma is characterized by a particular pattern of progressive damage to the optic nerve that generally begins with a subtle loss of side vision (peripheral vision). If glaucoma is not diagnosed and treated, it can progress to loss of central vision and blindness.

Glaucoma is usually, but not always, associated with elevated pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure). Generally, it is this elevated eye pressure that leads to damage of the eye (optic) nerve. In some cases, glaucoma may occur in the presence of normal eye pressure. This form of glaucoma is believed to be caused by poor regulation of blood flow to the optic nerve.

How common is glaucoma?

Worldwide, glaucoma...

Read the Glaucoma article »

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Xalatan Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

LATANOPROST - OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION

(lay-TAN-oh-prost)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Xalatan

USES: Latanoprost is used to treat high pressure inside the eye due to glaucoma (open angle type) or other eye diseases (e.g., 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: Apply this medication in the affected eye(s) usually once daily in the evening, or as directed by your doctor. Do not use this medication more frequently than prescribed; using more can decrease effectiveness.

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.

The preservative in this product may be absorbed by contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication and keep them out of your eyes for at least 15 minutes after applying latanoprost.

Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and apply the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the inside corner of your eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye.

Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. It is important to continue 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 (e.g., 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.