Latanoprost Eyedrops — what they do and how to use them

If your doctor prescribed latanoprost eyedrops, you probably want clear, practical info. Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analog used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Clinical studies typically show IOP drops around 25–30% for many patients, which helps reduce the risk of optic nerve damage over time.

How to use latanoprost eyedrops

Use one drop in the affected eye(s) once daily — usually at bedtime. Take these simple steps for better results and fewer problems:

- Wash your hands. Tilt your head back and pull the lower eyelid down to make a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze gently. Close your eye for about one minute and press gently on the inner corner (near the nose) to limit drainage into your throat.
- Wait at least 5–10 minutes before using other eye drops. If you wear soft contact lenses, take them out before applying the drops and wait 15 minutes to reinsert them — the preservative can stick to lenses.
- Don’t touch the dropper tip to your eye or fingers. If the tip gets dirty, clean it with a sterile cloth or get a new bottle.

Side effects, precautions, and tips

Common side effects are eye redness, stinging, increased eyelash growth, and gradual darkening of the iris (especially in light-colored eyes). Eyelid skin may darken too. These changes can be permanent, so mention them when choosing treatment.

Call your doctor right away for severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, signs of a serious allergic reaction (rash, swelling), or eye infection symptoms. If you’re pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits with your doctor — choices vary by individual.

Interactions are mostly local: if you use other glaucoma drops, time them properly and follow your eye specialist’s schedule. Systemic drug interactions are uncommon, but always list your current meds when you visit the doctor.

Expect to see pressure reduction within a few weeks; full effect may take 4–6 weeks. Keep regular follow-up visits so your eye doctor can measure IOP and check for side effects or changes in the optic nerve.

Store bottles at room temperature away from heat and light. Throw away the opened bottle after the time printed on the label (usually 4–6 weeks) to avoid contamination. If you miss one nightly dose, use it as soon as you remember that day. Don’t double up the next night.

Want an alternative? There are other prostaglandin drops and different classes of glaucoma medications (beta-blockers, carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, alpha agonists). Talk to your eye doctor if latanoprost causes unacceptable side effects or doesn’t lower your pressure enough.

Bottom line: latanoprost is an effective, once-daily option to lower eye pressure. Use it carefully, follow simple hygiene steps, and keep up with eye checks so you get the best result with the fewest problems.