Xalatan - Comprehensive Usage Guide: instructions, indications, composition, side effects

Active Ingredient: Latanoprost
Excipients: May include benzalkonium chloride, sodium chloride, sodium dihydrogen phosphate monohydrate, and other inactive ingredients depending on the formulation.

Eye Drops: Available in a concentration of 0.005% latanoprost.

Xalatan belongs to the pharmacological group of prostaglandin analogs (ATC code: S01E E01).

• Pharmacodynamics: Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2alpha analog that reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway.
• Pharmacokinetics: After ocular administration, latanoprost is absorbed through the cornea and hydrolyzed to the active form. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 2 hours. It is metabolized in the liver and excreted primarily in the urine.

Xalatan is indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Xalatan is contraindicated in individuals with:

• Hypersensitivity to latanoprost or any component of the formulation.
• Active intraocular inflammation (e.g., uveitis).
• Aphakia.

Xalatan may interact with other medications, including:

• Prostaglandin analogs, beta-blockers, or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, potentially leading to additive effects on intraocular pressure reduction.
• Contact lenses should be removed before administration and may be reinserted after 15 minutes.

• Xalatan eye drops should be instilled into the affected eye(s) according to the prescribed dosage regimen.
• Shake the bottle well before each use and avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface to prevent contamination.

• Xalatan should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus.
• It is not recommended during breastfeeding due to limited data on its excretion into breast milk.

The recommended dosage is one drop of Xalatan in the affected eye(s) once daily, preferably in the evening.

In case of overdose, supportive measures should be initiated, and medical attention should be sought immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include ocular irritation, conjunctival hyperemia, and eye pain.

Common side effects of Xalatan may include:

• Ocular irritation (e.g., burning, stinging, itching)
• Conjunctival hyperemia (redness)
• Blurred vision
• Dry eye
• Foreign body sensation

Less common but more severe adverse reactions may include:

• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling)
• Conjunctival follicles
• Eyelash growth
• Iris pigmentation
• Periorbital skin darkening
• Visual disturbances

If any of these side effects persist or worsen, patients should discontinue use and consult their healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, patients should seek medical attention if they experience any signs of systemic absorption, such as changes in heart rate, blood pressure, or mental status.