What it does
Latanoprost is a medicine used to lower eye pressure in people with glaucoma or high eye pressure.
Commonly used for: glaucoma, high eye pressure (ocular hypertension)
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 21:45:11 · updated 2026-07-20 11:19:42
About this medicine
Latanoprost is a medicine used to lower eye pressure in people with glaucoma or high eye pressure.
What it treats
- glaucoma
- high eye pressure (ocular hypertension)
How it works
It works by increasing the flow of fluid out of the eye, which helps reduce pressure.
Who it's for
This medicine is for adults and children with conditions that cause high pressure in the eyes.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: latanaprost
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analog, primarily utilized in the management of glaucoma and ocular hypertension by reducing intraocular pressure. It acts by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway.
Indications
- Open-angle glaucoma
- Ocular hypertension
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Latanoprost is a selective agonist of the prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) receptor. Upon binding to these receptors in the ciliary body, it enhances the permeability of the tissue, leading to increased aqueous humor outflow and a consequent reduction in intraocular pressure.
Pharmacodynamics
Latanoprost exhibits a time-dependent increase in the outflow of aqueous humor, leading to a significant decrease in intraocular pressure. Its hypotensive effect is more pronounced at night, making it particularly effective for patients with elevated intraocular pressure due to conditions such as open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Pharmacokinetics
After topical ocular administration, latanoprost is rapidly absorbed through the cornea. It is metabolized in the eye to its active form, which is responsible for its therapeutic effects. The elimination half-life is approximately 17 minutes in the aqueous humor, while systemic absorption is low, with minimal systemic side effects. The drug is primarily excreted in urine as metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to latanoprost or any of its excipients
- Active intraocular inflammation
- History of macular edema
Adverse effects
- Ocular hyperemia
- Iris pigmentation changes
- Eyelash changes (increased length, thickness, number)
- Stinging or burning sensation in the eye
- Conjunctival hyperemia
- Periorbital skin darkening
Interactions
- Other ocular hypotensive agents may have additive effects
- Topical ophthalmic drugs should be administered at least 5 minutes apart
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with a history of asthma
- Monitor intraocular pressure regularly
- May cause darkening of the iris and periorbital skin
Pregnancy
Latanoprost is classified as a category C drug. Its safety in pregnancy has not been established and should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Breast-feeding
It is not known if latanoprost is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.
Storage
Store at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Protect from light. Do not freeze.
Formulations
- 0.005% ophthalmic solution (available in 2.5 mL and 5 mL bottles)
- Preservative-free formulations available for sensitive eyes
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.