Xalatan: Agent for Glaucoma

Literature on the Medication Known as Xalatan (Latanoprost)

Ocular hypertension is intraocular pressure which is higher than normal in the absence of optic nerve damage or visual field loss. Normal intraocular pressure lies between 10 mmHg and 21 mmHg. Because intraocular pressure is the most important risk factor for glaucoma, those with ocular hypertension are commonly thought to have a greater chance of developing the condition. If your doctor has diagnosed you intraocular pressure, and has precribed you with Xalatan to aid with your intraocular pressure, this literature will be beneficial to you, and help you become familiar with Xalatan and more comfortable with it.

Xalatan (Latanoprost) comes as an ophthalmic solution. Each 2.5 mL dispenser bottle contains 0.005% Latanoprost. Xalatan is used for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. One drop of Xalatan is administered in the affected eye, or eyes. Xalatan's dosage is only to be given once time a day, and only in the evening. If you use any more Xalatan than is recommended, you run the risk of decreasing the pressure-lowering effects of the Xalatan medication.

The Latanoprost in Xalatan is a prostanoid selective receptor which is similar to a natural chemical in the body (prostaglandin) and works by increasing the outflow of aqueous fluid within the eye which, in turn, lowers intraocular pressure.