Prostaglandin analogues, antiglaucoma agents
ATC code: S01EE01 (Latanoprost)
Brand names
Latanoprost Stada, Xalatan, Monoprost
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.
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 , latanoprost provides additional 1-2 mmHg IOP reduction without systemic beta-blocking effects.
The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.
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.
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Use in pregnancy only if clearly necessary. Systemic absorption is minimal, but prostaglandins may theoretically stimulate uterine contractility. Alternatives – timolol or brinzolamide.
Systemic absorption is minimal, safe during lactation. Instill after feeding to further minimize infant exposure.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
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.
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.
FDA category C. Use in pregnancy only if clearly necessary. Systemic absorption is minimal, but prostaglandins may theoretically stimulate uterine contractility. Alternatives – timolol or brinzolamide.
Systemic absorption is minimal, safe during lactation. Instill after feeding to further minimize infant exposure.
Latanoprost is contraindicated in: Latanoprost or benzalkonium chloride hypersensitivity. Full list in the Safety section.