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Ксалатан

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Ксалатан

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Treatment option: Hypertension, Glaucoma

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Overview of Ксалатан

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Latanoprost
Form Ophthalmic solution (Eye drops)
Pharmacological class Prostaglandin F2alpha Analogue
Common use Reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP)
Origin Synthetic derivative

Classification and Essential Identity

Ксалатан (Xalatan) is a globally recognized prescription medicine formulated as a topical ophthalmic solution, whose core function is the reduction of pressure within the eye. Its active ingredient is Latanoprost, which is categorized as an Ocular hypotensive agent belonging to the distinct Prostaglandin F2alpha analogue class. Latanoprost is clinically recognized for its potency and sustained pressure control, establishing its primary identity and pharmacological role in managing elevated intraocular pressure.

Active Ingredient, Origin, and Pharmaceutical Form

This medication's composition is defined by the synthetic derivative Latanoprost, which is structurally related to naturally occurring prostaglandins. The formulation is supplied as an isopropyl ester pro-drug within an aqueous, buffered ophthalmic solution. This specific chemical characteristic is a key differentiating factor, enabling optimized delivery; the pro-drug is designed to be lipophilic to promote penetration across the cornea, the eye’s outer barrier, before being activated into Latanoprost acid once absorbed. This design strategy facilitates ocular bioavailability.

Primary Role and General Therapeutic Purpose

The fundamental purpose of Latanoprost is to produce a sustained, long-term lowering of intraocular pressure (IOP). The general therapeutic benefit is achieved by specifically enhancing the natural drainage of the eye’s internal fluid, aqueous humor, primarily through the uveoscleral outflow pathway. By maintaining a consistent reduction in IOP, the medication helps mitigate the risk of damage to the optic nerve that often results from chronic pressure elevation.

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What side effects are possible with Ксалатан?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile for this medicine is based on adverse reactions observed in clinical trials and postmarketing experience, categorized by frequency and system-organ class in regulatory documentation.

Adverse Reactions Scope

Very Common (mathbfgeq 1/10): The most frequent reported effects are primarily related to the eye and surrounding tissues. These include a gradual increase in brown pigmentation of the iris, mild to moderate eye redness (conjunctival hyperaemia), eye irritation (such as burning, stinging, itching, or foreign body sensation), and changes in eyelashes (increased length, thickness, pigmentation, and number).

Common (mathbfgeq 1/100 to mathbf< 1/10): Blurred vision, eye pain, inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis), conjunctivitis, and irritation/inflammation of the cornea (punctate keratitis).

Uncommon to Very Rare: Less frequent effects involve ocular inflammation (e.g., iritis/uveitis), dry eye, corneal oedema or erosions, macular oedema (swelling of the retina), headache, dizziness, and systemic effects like chest pain or rash. Specific rare reactions include the reactivation of Herpes Simplex keratitis and toxic epidermal necrolysis (postmarketing).

Safety-Related Restrictions and Caution

Pigmentation Changes: Increased brown pigmentation of the iris is expected to progress while the medicine is used and is likely to be permanent, even after discontinuation. Eyelash changes and darkening of the eyelid skin are typically reversible upon cessation of treatment. Unilateral treatment may result in a cosmetic difference between the two eyes.

Pre-existing Ocular Conditions: The medicine should be used with caution in patients with a history of intraocular inflammation (iritis/uveitis) or herpetic keratitis. Use should generally be avoided in cases of active intraocular inflammation or active Herpes Simplex keratitis due to the potential for exacerbation. Caution is also warranted in patients with known risk factors for macular oedema, such as aphakia (absence of the lens) or pseudophakia with a torn posterior lens capsule.

Formulation Component: This medicine contains benzalkonium chloride, which can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Contact lenses must be removed before application and may be reinserted 15 minutes following instillation. Hypersensitivity to latanoprost, benzalkonium chloride, or any other component is a contraindication.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory information for Ксалатан (Latanoprost) overdose addresses both topical ocular exposure and accidental systemic ingestion.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

Exposure Type Documented Symptoms (Regulatory Sources)
Ocular (Topical Overdose) Conjunctival hyperaemia (eye redness) and eye irritation.
Systemic (Accidental Ingestion) Dizziness, headache, nausea, abdominal discomfort, sweating, and fatigue. Systemic ingestion may theoretically exacerbate pre-existing conditions like asthma or angina.

Accidental administration of the solution more than once daily may paradoxically reduce the intended intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering effect or cause IOP to increase.

Emergency Response and Management

Action Required Official Regulatory Statement
Immediate Self-Care (Ocular) The eye(s) should be immediately flushed with lukewarm/tepid water.
Urgent Medical Consultation Seek medical attention immediately following accidental oral ingestion or inhalation. Contact a doctor, hospital, or regional poisons information center at once.
Antidote Information No specific antidote is known for Latanoprost.
Management Approach Overdose management is symptomatic and supportive. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by medical personnel.

Systemic exposure in children may be higher than in adults; however, official regulatory sources indicate a wide safety margin for systemic adverse effects is maintained.

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Therapeutic Uses of Ксалатан

Ксалатан (Latanoprost) is commonly used to help manage specific conditions that cause elevated pressure inside the eye, including open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. This medication is applied in clinical settings where supportive pressure management is appropriate, reducing symptoms related to heightened physiological activity. Ксалатан is considered relevant in managing these two condition categories.


Reducing High Eye Pressure and Supporting Stability

The medication helps address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive due to high intraocular pressure (IOP). Ксалатан is used across condition categories presenting with acute episodes of pressure, where short-term symptom management is appropriate to help reduce potential strain. This treatment supports patients during periods where symptoms are more noticeable, assisting with maintaining functional stability and contributing to improved comfort. Quick Fact: Relief for Symptoms Related to Heightened Physiological Activity.


Long-Term Patient Benefit

The long-term support this treatment provides against the potential for pressure-related complications offers a valuable benefit for the patient. By consistently lowering IOP, the medication supports patients during difficult episodes and helps maintain a sense of stability. This therapeutic approach assists with maintaining functional stability and supports long-term eye health, which is relevant for easing overall systemic burden.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus Drug Information on Latanoprost
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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Who Can and Cannot Use Ксалатан (Latanoprost)

Official regulatory documents define specific eligibility rules for using Latanoprost ophthalmic solution, which is primarily intended for adults to manage elevated eye pressure. Eligibility is structured around absolute contraindications, restrictions based on physiological state, and conditional use for specific ocular risk factors.


Contraindications and Restrictions

Classification Eligible Population Restriction/Exclusion Status
Absolute Contraindication Patients with known hypersensitivity Must not be used if allergic to Latanoprost or benzalkonium chloride.
Active Ocular Condition Patients with active intraocular inflammation Should not be used (e.g., active iritis or uveitis, active herpes simplex keratitis).
Reproductive Status Pregnant or breastfeeding women Not recommended; use should be avoided due to insufficient safety data in these populations.
Pediatric Use Children and infants Safety and efficacy have not been established for all groups, particularly infants under one year.

Conditional Use and Special Populations

Use requires caution in patients with specific ocular risk factors for macular edema, such as those who are aphakic (without a lens) or pseudophakic with a damaged lens capsule. Additionally, Latanoprost has not been adequately studied in patients with hepatic or renal impairment, meaning use in these groups requires special consideration as per regulatory labeling.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section outlines the officially documented interaction patterns for Ксалатан (Latanoprost) ophthalmic solution, based strictly on government regulatory information.


Pharmacodynamic Interactions

Co-administration with other prostaglandin analogues or derivatives used for ocular pressure reduction is not recommended. This restriction is documented due to a pharmacodynamic interaction which can lead to a paradoxical increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), or an unexpected reduction in the intended IOP-lowering effect. This is the primary drug-drug restriction noted in official labeling.


Administration-Timing Interactions

Interaction rules regarding administration timing apply when co-administering Latanoprost with other topical eye medications. A mandatory separation requirement dictates that Latanoprost must be administered at least five (5) minutes apart from any other topical ophthalmic drug product. This rule also specifically addresses the interaction with eye drops containing thimerosal, where co-administration without timing separation can result in physical precipitation of the Latanoprost product.


Systemic and Metabolic Interactions

The interaction profile is characterized by the absence of documented systemic effects. Regulatory documentation does not list specific systemic drug-drug interactions, CYP-mediated metabolic interactions, or interactions with food, alcohol, or herbal products. This reflects the drug's intended local action and minimal systemic circulation.

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Mechanism of Action

How Ксалатан Works

Targeted Activation of the Prostanoid FP Receptor

The mechanism is initiated by the active form of Latanoprost, Latanoprost acid, which acts as a selective agonist on the prostanoid FP receptor found in the ciliary smooth muscle. This targeted molecular interaction initiates a cellular cascade that results in the reduction of resistance to fluid drainage.


Remodeling of Uveoscleral Tissue and Outflow

Receptor activation leads to the induction of enzymes, such as Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs), which drive the localized remodeling of the extracellular matrix (ECM) within the uveoscleral pathway. This physical change increases the tissue's permeability, establishing a functional consequence of increased fluid drainage.


Enhancing Aqueous Humor Drainage

The structural changes ultimately enhance the facility of the uveoscleral outflow, accelerating the rate at which aqueous humor leaves the eye chamber. This increase in fluid drainage is the principal physiological consequence that lowers intraocular pressure (IOP).

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Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Ксалатан: Official Administration Guidelines

Ксалатан (Latanoprost) is a sterile ophthalmic solution whose administration follows a standardized protocol. The medicine is delivered exclusively via the topical ophthalmic route as a fixed dose of one drop into the affected eye(s) once per day.

Dosing Frequency and Timing

The frequency of application is once daily; the dose must not exceed this limit, as more frequent use may lead to reduced efficacy. The administration is generally recommended to occur in the evening. If a dose is missed, the next scheduled dose should be taken as normal and the dose should not be doubled to compensate.


Administration Protocol and Constraints

Entity Official Instruction
Dosing Schedule One drop in the affected eye(s).
Frequency Once daily, preferably in the evening.
Concurrent Eye Drops Maintain a minimum interval of 5 minutes between Ксалатан and any other topical ophthalmic solution.
Contact Lenses Soft contact lenses must be removed prior to administration and may be reinserted 15 minutes after the dose.

Population Consistency

The standard once-daily regimen is specified for use across the general adult population. This fixed dosing also applies to geriatric patients and may be used in pediatric patients, although data is limited in specific young patient groups. This consistency defines the standardized use of the solution regardless of age within the approved range.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

This section summarizes the published research that has explored whether this drug may affect certain health outcomes. This information is purely descriptive of the studies and their findings.


Primary Outcome Studies

Research focused on the drug's use in adult participants with a specific, studied condition.

Study 1: Long-term Examination

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 400 participants over two years. The main focus of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcome over an extended period.

  • Efficacy: Research examined the potential for an association with changes in symptom frequency. Examinations focused on whether an effect on symptom frequency was observed during the study period.
  • Safety: The study focused on the occurrence of adverse events in participants taking the drug versus those taking the placebo. Researchers observed the occurrence of specific events in both groups.

Study 2: Head-to-Head Comparison

This open-label study compared the drug's effect to an existing standard-of-care medication in 150 participants for three months. The researchers designed this to contrast the potential effects of the two treatments.

  • Outcomes: The study investigated the potential for an association with pain levels and general functional capacity. Results presented the outcome difference between the two groups.
  • Dosage: This research also explored the effects of varying doses. Research noted the potential for variation in reported side effects relative to dosage.

Special Population and Combination Research

Other research has examined the drug's use in specific contexts.

Geriatric Population Data

A small, single-center study in 75 elderly participants (age 65 and older) focused on the drug’s behavior within the body. Researchers sought to determine how the drug was processed in this specific age group.

  • Findings: The study found mixed results regarding the drug's effect in the elderly population compared to younger adults. The onset of any potential effect was a focus of the research, and initial analysis suggested differences in how the body processed the drug were observed in some participants.
  • Adverse Events: Monitoring included tracking of cardiovascular events; researchers reported no significant differences between the two groups in this study.

Combination Therapy Trials

Research examined a combination therapy where the drug was used alongside another approved treatment for the condition.

  • Objective: The trials sought to determine whether combining the two treatments may affect the overall outcome measures, such as quality of life scores. The initial analysis reported that the combination was one focus of the study's final reported measurements.
  • Note: The findings presented here are descriptive of research only and the information presented here is descriptive of the research and does not constitute advice.

Key Studies & References

  1. Combination therapy with latanoprost and topical beta-blockers for glaucoma and ocular hypertension: a systematic review
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Ксалатан (FAQ)


Q: I wear soft contacts. Do I have to remove them when I use Latanoprost, and how long do I need to wait before I put them back in?

If a patient wears soft contact lenses, they must be removed before applying the eye drops. This is because the formulation contains an ingredient, benzalkonium chloride, that can be absorbed by soft lenses. After the drops are administered, regulatory instructions advise waiting at least 15 minutes before reinserting soft contact lenses.


Q: Is it okay to use this if I also have liver or kidney problems?

Official information indicates that Latanoprost has not been adequately studied in individuals with severe hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment. For these specific populations, the product information states that the use of the drug warrants special consideration and monitoring.


Q: What should I do if my eye drops were left out of the refrigerator overnight?

Unopened bottles of Ксалатан must be stored in the refrigerator (between 2 C to 8 C) to maintain their official stability, as directed by regulatory storage conditions. Once the bottle is opened, it may be stored at room temperature (not exceeding 25 C), but it must be discarded after the designated time frame (e.g., six weeks). If an unopened bottle is left unrefrigerated, it is best to consult the dispensing pharmacist or the product's official instructions for specific guidance regarding product viability.


Q: What happens if I accidentally put more than one drop in my eye?

According to the official product information on overdose, acute accidental ocular overdose (using more than one drop at a time) is unlikely to cause severe or lasting effects. Patients may potentially experience temporary eye irritation or an increase in conjunctival hyperaemia (eye redness). Any concerns about accidental acute overdose warrant consulting a healthcare professional for clinical observation.


Q: What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction to Latanoprost?

Known hypersensitivity (allergy) to the active ingredient or excipients, such as benzalkonium chloride, is listed as a reason the drug should not be used. While the reported adverse reaction profile mainly details local eye effects, if a patient experiences signs of a severe systemic allergic reaction, such as a rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing, immediate medical attention is advised.

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How should Ксалатан be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage Conditions

Storage State Required Conditions
Unopened Bottle Must be stored under refrigeration between 2 C to 8 C (36 F to 46 F). Protect from light by keeping in the original outer carton.
Opened Bottle May be stored at room temperature, but must not exceed 25 C (77 F). Must be discarded after six weeks (four weeks in some regions) from first opening.

The solution must not be frozen under any circumstances. To prevent contamination, the container tip should not touch the eye or any surface during use.

Disposal and Safety

The medicine must be stored out of the sight and reach of children to prevent accidental exposure. Do not keep outdated or unused medication.

Disposal of unused or expired Latanoprost solution should adhere to local regulatory requirements. The product must not be disposed of via household garbage or wastewater, as directed in official regulatory labeling.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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