What is latanoprost?
Latanoprost (brand names: Xalatan®, Monoprost®, Xelpros®) is a prostaglandin used to reduce pressure in the eye and treat glaucoma.
Its use in dogs and other animals to treat glaucoma is ‘off label’ or ‘extra label’. Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off label use in veterinary medicine. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions very carefully as their directions may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is latanoprost given?
Latanoprost is applied to the eye in the form of a liquid solution. Wash your hands before administering this medication. Do not touch the tip of the dropper to the surface of the eye or any other surface. Give this medication at least 5 minutes apart from other medications used in the eye. Wipe off excess medication on the face with a damp cloth or tissue. Do not give this to your pet if the medication is cloudy or changes color. Pregnant women should NOT handle this medication; if it is necessary, wear gloves and wash hands immediately after administering.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours; however, effects may not be visibly obvious and therefore laboratory tests may need to be done to evaluate the effectiveness of this medication.
What if I miss giving my pet the medication?
If you miss a dose, give it when you remember, but if it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and give it at the next scheduled time, and return to the regular dosing schedule. Never give your pet two doses at once or give extra doses.
Are there any potential side effects?
Side effects may include a burning or stinging sensation, mild eye redness, growth of eyelashes, or color change of the iris or around the eye. Serious side effects include difficulty breathing, facial swelling, bright light sensitivity, or severe redness in the eyes.
This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours.
Are there any risk factors for this medication?
Do not use in pets that are allergic to it. Do not use in pets with eye inflammation (uveitis). Use cautiously in pets at risk for lens luxation/subluxation, or pets that have liver disease, kidney disease, that are pregnant or nursing, or in pets that are going to have any surgery.
Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?
There are no specific drug interactions with latanoprost ophthalmic. Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking.
Is there any monitoring that needs to be done with this medication?
There is no specific monitoring that needs to be done while your pet is taking this medication. Your veterinarian may monitor your pet to be sure that the medication is working by monitoring eye pressures. Monitor your pet at home for serious side effects.
How do I store latanoprost?
Store unopened bottles of this medication in the refrigerator between 36°F and 46°F (2°C and 8°C), protected from freezing. An open bottle may be stored at room temperature up to 77°F (25°C) for 6 weeks. Protect from light.
What should I do in case of emergency?
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility.
