If you’ve been prescribed Xalatan, you probably already know it’s an eye drop used for glaucoma. Still, there are a few things that many patients miss: the exact dosing schedule, how to avoid irritation, and what to watch for as side effects. This guide gives you the basics you need to use Xalatan safely and get the most benefit.
Xalatan contains latanoprost, a prostaglandin analogue. It works by increasing the out‑flow of fluid from the eye, which lowers the pressure inside. High pressure can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss, so keeping it down is the main goal of treatment.
Doctors usually prescribe Xalatan for open‑angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. If you’ve been told you have one of these conditions, your eye doctor will have measured your intra‑ocular pressure (IOP) and decided that a daily drop can keep the pressure in check.
Using Xalatan is simple, but a few steps matter. First, wash your hands. Then, tilt your head back slightly and pull down the lower eyelid to make a small pocket. Hold the bottle upside down and gently squeeze one drop into that pocket. Close your eye for about a minute and press the inner corner of the eye with your finger – this helps keep the medicine from draining into the tear duct.
Repeat the same steps on the other eye if your doctor told you to use it there. Wait at least five minutes before applying any other eye drops, and avoid touching the tip of the bottle to anything, especially your eye or eyelashes.
Most doctors recommend one drop once a day, usually in the evening. Taking it at the same time each day helps keep your pressure stable and makes it easier to remember.
Even if you feel fine, keep using Xalatan as directed. Glaucoma doesn’t have obvious symptoms until vision is already affected, so the medication works best when used consistently.
Most people tolerate Xalatan well, but a few side effects are common. You might notice a slight stinging or burning when you first put the drop in. Darkening of the iris (the colored part of the eye) can also happen, especially with long‑term use. This change is usually permanent and harmless, but it’s good to know.
Other possible effects include blurry vision right after the drop, eyelash growth, or a mild rash around the eye. If you experience severe eye pain, persistent redness, or sudden vision loss, seek medical help right away – these could be signs of an allergic reaction or an infection.
Should you notice any new eye problems, call your eye doctor before stopping the medication. They may adjust the dose or suggest a different treatment.
Keep Xalatan refrigerated before you open it. Once opened, you can store it at room temperature for up to six weeks. Make sure the cap is tight, and keep the bottle away from children and pets.
Never share your eye drops with anyone, even if they have the same diagnosis. The bottle is meant for a single patient, and using a drop that’s been contaminated can cause infection.
In summary, Xalatan is an effective, once‑daily eye drop for controlling eye pressure. Use it exactly as your doctor instructed, watch for side effects, and keep the bottle stored properly. By following these simple steps, you’ll give yourself the best chance to protect your vision over the long run.
Straight answers on Xalatan (latanoprost): what it’s for, how to use it, side effects, storage, costs, and UK-specific tips-plus quick routes to the official leaflet.
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