Why are Xalatan Eye Drops prescribed?

Xalatan Eye Drops (Latanoprost) are used to treat certain types of glaucoma and other causes of high pressure inside the eye. It is classified as an ophthalmic glaucoma agent and lowers pressure inside the eye by increasing the amount of fluid that drains from the eye. Latanoprost Eye Drops (Generic) is also available in addition to the brand name Xalatan in the strength of 0.005%.

What is the most effective way to use Xalatan Eye Drops?

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not use Xalatan in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. The usual dose of Xalatan is 1 drop into the affected eye every evening. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

• Do not use Xalatan while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in this medicine could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.
• Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
•   To apply the Xalatan eye drops:
  1. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.
  2. Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
  3. Wait at least 5 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.
• Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.
• Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.
• Tell your doctor right away if you have an eye injury or eye infection, or if you plan to have eye surgery.
• Store an unopened bottle of Xalatan eye drops in a refrigerator. Do not freeze.
• After your first use, store the eye drops at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Throw away the medicine after 6 weeks have passed since you first opened the bottle.

Before using Xalatan Eye Drops,

• tell your doctor if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other drug allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
• tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: other eye problems such as iritis/uveitis
• If you develop an eye infection or injury or have eye surgery, check with your doctor about the continued use of your current bottle of latanoprost. You may be advised to start using a new bottle.
• Your vision may be temporarily blurred or unstable after applying this drug. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.
• This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Common side effects include but are not limited to:

• puffy eyelids
• stinging, burning, or redness of the eyes
• blurred vision
• feeling like something is in your eye
• dry or watery eyes
• cold or flu symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat

• Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Xalatan: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using Xalatan and call your doctor at once if you have:

• possible signs of infection - eye swelling, redness, severe discomfort, crusting or drainage 
• red, swollen, or itchy eyelids
• increased sensitivity to light
• vision changes
• severe burning, stinging, or irritation 

Why is Xalatan Eye Drops prescribed?

Xalatan Eye Drops are used to treat certain types of glaucoma and other causes of high pressure inside the eye.

What if I forget a dose of Xalatan Eye Drops?

Skip the missed dose and use the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

How and where should I store the bottle of Xalatan Eye Drops?

After your first use, store the eye drops at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use. Throw away the medicine after 6 weeks have passed since you first opened the bottle.