Latanoprost

Prostaglandin analogues, antiglaucoma agents

ATC code: S01EE01

Brand names: Latanoprost Stada, Xalatan, Monoprost

Updated 24 Sep 2026 · Methodology

Indications

Glaucomatous optic neuropathy

First line

First-line for primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension per EGS 2021 and PPP 2020. Instill 1 drop into the affected eye once daily at bedtime. Target IOP reduction 20–25% from baseline. Compared with timolol, latanoprost provides additional 1–2 mmHg IOP reduction without systemic beta-blocking effects.

Sources

ICD-10: H40 · ICD-11: 9C61

Marketing claims without evidence base

The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.

Anti-aging and longevity

Not recommended

Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2α analogue. It is prescribed for primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension to reduce intraocular pressure ( NG81, 2020). Latanoprost is used cosmetically for eyelash lengthening outside any ophthalmic indication. The drug carries specific risks in this use: irreversible iris pigmentation (especially in mixed-color eyes – green/hazel may turn dark brown), eyelash lengthening and darkening (the claimed cosmetic effect, but may be asymmetric), periorbital skin pigmentation, eye sinking, and reactivation of ocular herpes. If latanoprost was prescribed for eyelashes, consider seeking a second opinion; bimatoprost (Latisse) is approved for cosmetic eyelash lengthening with a better-characterized profile.

Sources

How to read tiers A–F

AStrong evidence – first or second line in international guidelines
BRecommended in selected cases
CStudy data contradict each other
DBenefit not proven, no documented harm
FDocumented harm, or risk without benefit

Mechanism of action

Prostaglandin F2-alpha analogue, selective FP receptor agonist. Lowers intraocular pressure by enhancing uveoscleral outflow (by 30–40% from baseline). Effect develops within 3–4 hours after instillation, peaks at 8–12 hours, lasts 24 hours – once-daily dosing. Compared with timolol, latanoprost gives greater IOP reduction without systemic beta-blocking effects.

Safety

Contraindications

Latanoprost or benzalkonium chloride hypersensitivity

Serious adverse effects

Cystoid macular edema (rare, more often in aphakia or pseudophakia)
Herpetic keratitis reactivation
Anterior uveitis

Common adverse effects

Conjunctival hyperemia (5–15%)
Eyelash growth and darkening
Iris darkening (irreversible, in 10–20% over 5 years, more often in mixed-color irises)
Burning and itching
Blurred vision

Pregnancy: can you take Latanoprost?

AEMPS summary of product characteristics (section 4.6): the safety of latanoprost in pregnant women has not been established. Its pharmacological effects are potentially harmful and may affect the course of pregnancy, the fetus or the newborn. For this reason, latanoprost should not be used during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding: can you take Latanoprost?

Systemic absorption is minimal, safe during lactation. Instill after feeding to further minimize infant exposure.

Calculate RID Full profile on NIH LactMed ↗

Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.

Practical notes

Timing and administration

Instill once daily in the evening before sleep – stable concentration during morning IOP peak. For bilateral glaucoma, both eyes simultaneously. After instillation, close the eye and apply gentle pressure on the inner canthus for 1–2 minutes – reduces systemic absorption via nasolacrimal duct and prolongs local action. Remove contact lenses for 15 minutes after instillation (benzalkonium chloride damages lenses).

Drug interactions

If latanoprost alone is insufficient, add timolol (fixed combinations Xalacom, Duoprost) or a topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitor (dorzolamide, brinzolamide). No systemic interactions – systemic absorption is minimal.

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Frequently asked

What is Latanoprost used for?

Latanoprost is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Glaucomatous optic neuropathy (evidence tier A), Anti-aging and longevity (evidence tier F). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.

What are the side effects of Latanoprost?

Common side effects of Latanoprost (≥ 1 in 100): Conjunctival hyperemia (5–15%), Eyelash growth and darkening, Iris darkening (irreversible, in 10–20% over 5 years, more often in mixed-color irises), Burning and itching, Blurred vision. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.

Is Latanoprost safe during pregnancy?

Is Latanoprost compatible with breastfeeding?

Systemic absorption is minimal, safe during lactation. Instill after feeding to further minimize infant exposure.

Who should not take Latanoprost?

Latanoprost is contraindicated in: Latanoprost or benzalkonium chloride hypersensitivity. Full list in the Safety section.

Official sources

Direct links to regulator labels. Open in a new tab.

AEMPS / CIMA
FDA / DailyMedLabel dated 03/02/2026

Other drugs in this group

Lutein + zeaxanthin, Tetryzoline, Timolol, Travoprost, Brimonidine, Dorzolamide, Bimatoprost, Carbomer