Latanoprost: how it works and why it matters

Latanoprost is a common eye drop used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It’s a prostaglandin analog that increases fluid drainage from the eye, often cutting IOP by about 25–33%. That reduction can protect the optic nerve and help preserve vision.

Want results with minimal fuss? Most people use latanoprost once nightly. It works best when taken at the same time every evening, and many patients see steady benefit within 3–4 weeks.

How to use latanoprost safely

Wash your hands first. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower lid to make a small pocket, and put one drop into the eye. Close your eyes gently for 1–2 minutes and press the inner corner of the eye (nasolacrimal duct) to limit systemic absorption. If you need multiple eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between different medications.

If you wear contact lenses, take them out before using the drops and wait 15 minutes before putting them back in. Store unopened bottles according to the label—some brands prefer refrigeration until opened, while many generics are fine at room temperature. After opening, follow the manufacturer’s time limit for use (often 4–6 weeks).

Common side effects and important warnings

Red or watery eyes, itching, burning, and blurred vision are the most common reactions. Latanoprost can also darken the iris (especially in people with mixed-color eyes), cause longer or darker eyelashes, and darken eyelid skin. These changes can be permanent.

Avoid latanoprost if you have an active eye infection or severe eye inflammation. Tell your doctor if you’ve had eye surgery, are aphakic or pseudophakic (these patients may have higher risk of macular edema), or have a history of macular edema. Prostaglandin analogs can sometimes worsen inflammation or rarely trigger macular edema.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding require a talk with your doctor — many prescribers avoid prostaglandin drops unless the benefits clearly outweigh risks.

Drug interactions with latanoprost are rare, but because some glaucoma regimens combine medications, always list all eye and systemic medicines to your clinician. Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye to prevent contamination and infection.

Alternatives include other prostaglandin analogs (travoprost, bimatoprost, tafluprost) and different classes like beta-blockers (timolol) or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. If irritation or cosmetic changes are a concern, ask about preservative-free options — they can be gentler on sensitive eyes.

Buying tips: latanoprost usually requires a prescription. Buy from licensed pharmacies only. If ordering online, check for valid pharmacy credentials and a real prescription policy. Avoid suspiciously cheap or unverified sellers.

If your eye becomes very painful, vision drops suddenly, or you develop signs of infection (pus, severe redness), stop the drops and see your eye doctor right away. For regular use, keep follow-up appointments so your doctor can track IOP and watch for side effects.

Questions about switching brands, side effects, or combining latanoprost with other drops? Talk with your eye care provider — they can tailor treatment to protect your sight without unnecessary risks.