Latanoprost: Quick Guide to Using This Eye Drop

If you’ve been told you have glaucoma or high eye pressure, you’ve probably heard the name latanoprost. It’s an eye drop that belongs to a class called prostaglandin analogs. In plain terms, it helps your eye drain fluid better, which brings the pressure down and protects the optic nerve. Most people start seeing a pressure drop within a week, and the full effect shows up after a few weeks. The good news? You only need one drop once a day.

How to Use Latanoprost Correctly

First, wash your hands. Tilt your head back a little, pull down the lower eyelid to create a tiny pocket, and let the drop fall in. Close your eye gently for about a minute—no rubbing, that can push the medicine out. If you use other drops, wait at least five minutes before applying them, and always apply latanoprost first. Store the bottle at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze it; a frozen bottle can ruin the medication.

Most doctors prescribe one drop in the affected eye(s) each night, usually before bed. Nighttime works best because the drop stays on the eye longer while you’re not blinking as much. If you miss a dose, just use it the next night; don’t double up. Consistency is key—skipping days can let pressure creep back up.

Possible Side Effects & Safety Tips

Latanoprost is generally safe, but a few side effects pop up for some users. The most common is a darker color in the iris, especially in brown or hazel eyes. You might also notice longer eyelashes or a bit of redness. These changes are usually harmless, but if you see painful swelling, blurred vision, or intense itching, call your eye doctor right away.

Because latanoprost is a hormone‑like compound, it can cause eyelid skin darkening or a flaky feeling on the eyelid margin. Using a gentle cleanser and avoiding makeup on the treated eye can help. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the drop and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in.

Lastly, tell your doctor about any other eye medications, especially other prostaglandin drops, steroids, or eye infections. Mixing certain drugs can alter how well latanoprost works or raise the risk of irritation. Keep all follow‑up appointments so your eye pressure can be checked and the treatment adjusted if needed.

In short, latanoprost is a simple, once‑daily eye drop that can keep glaucoma from stealing your sight. Use it as directed, watch for any unusual changes, and stay in touch with your eye specialist. With the right routine, you’ll likely keep your eye pressure in the safe zone and avoid vision loss.