Xalatan⁚ Understanding This Glaucoma Medication
What is Xalatan?
Xalatan, containing the active ingredient latanoprost, is a prescription eye drop solution used to treat open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. These conditions involve increased pressure within the eye, potentially leading to vision loss if left untreated. Xalatan belongs to a class of drugs known as prostaglandin analogs, which work by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye, thereby lowering the pressure.
Before Using Xalatan⁚
- Talk to your doctor⁚ Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, especially to latanoprost or similar medications. Discuss your medical history, including any eye problems, liver or kidney disease, or upcoming surgeries.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding⁚ Consult your doctor before using Xalatan if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the effects on the baby are unknown.
- Other medications⁚ Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and supplements, as they may interact with Xalatan.
- Contact lenses⁚ Remove your contact lenses before applying Xalatan and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
How to Use Xalatan⁚
* Follow instructions⁚ Always use Xalatan exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Typically, one drop is applied to the affected eye(s) once a day in the evening.
* Wash your hands⁚ Wash your hands thoroughly before and after using the eye drops to prevent contamination.
* Avoid touching the tip⁚ Do not let the tip of the dropper touch your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
* Wait between medications⁚ If you use other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between applying each medication.
Possible Side Effects of Xalatan⁚
* Common side effects⁚
* Eye irritation⁚ Burning, stinging, itching, redness
* Changes in eye appearance⁚ Increased brown pigmentation in the iris, darkening of eyelashes, thickening and lengthening of eyelashes
* Blurred vision
* Dry eyes
* Feeling of something in the eye
* Less common side effects⁚
* Eye pain
* Sensitivity to light
* Headache
* Respiratory infections
* Rare side effects⁚
* Changes in eyelid skin
* Swelling of the eye
* Inflammation of the iris
**Note⁚** This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. **Consult your doctor if you experience any persistent or bothersome side effects.**
Important Information⁚
* Xalatan does not cure glaucoma, it only controls it. Continue using Xalatan as prescribed, even if you feel well.
* Regular eye exams are essential to monitor your condition and the medication’s effectiveness.
* Store Xalatan properly. Unopened bottles should be stored in the refrigerator. Once opened, follow the specific storage instructions for your brand of latanoprost, as they may differ slightly.
* Do not share your medication with others.
Talk to your doctor⁚
* If you experience any worsening of your symptoms
* If you have any concerns about side effects
* Before discontinuing Xalatan