Generic Xalatan 0.005% (Latanoprost)

Introduction

Xalatan .005 % is an ophthalmic solution whose active ingredient is latanoprost, a prostaglandin-F₂α analogue. It is supplied in single-use bottles containing 2.5 ml of sterile eye drops. The product is approved for lowering intra-ocular pressure (IOP) in adults with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Xalatan belongs to the prostaglandin analog class of intra-ocular pressure-lowering agents. In addition to its primary indication, the medication is occasionally investigated for off-label applications such as treatment of certain forms of optic-nerve head swelling, although these uses are not approved by regulatory agencies.

What is Xalatan .005 %?

Xalatan .005 % is a sterile ophthalmic solution that delivers .005 % (50 µg/mL) latanoprost to the surface of the eye. It was developed by Pfizer Inc. and received first FDA approval in 1996. The formulation contains the active compound dissolved in a buffered vehicle with benzalkonium chloride as a preservative and is packaged in a single-dose, amber-colored bottle to protect the drug from light.

The medication is classified as a prostaglandin F₂α-type analog used to reduce intra-ocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor outflow through the uveoscleral pathway.

Latanoprost is also marketed under other brand names such as XELTA, and a variety of approved generic versions are available in many countries.

How Xalatan .005 % Works

Latanoprost mimics the natural prostaglandin F₂α (PGF₂α) that regulates fluid dynamics in the eye. After topical administration, the prodrug is rapidly hydrolyzed by corneal esterases to the active free acid. The active molecule binds to FP receptors on the ciliary muscle and extracellular matrix, leading to remodeling of the extracellular matrix and relaxation of the ciliary muscle. These cellular changes enhance uveoscleral outflow, the secondary drainage route for aqueous humor, thereby lowering intra-ocular pressure.

Onset of pressure reduction is typically observed within 3-4 hours after the first dose, with a maximal effect reached after about 8 hours. The IOP-lowering effect is sustained for 24 hours, which is why once-daily dosing in the evening is standard practice. Latanoprost has a systemic half-life of approximately 17 minutes, and the majority of the drug is eliminated via the hepatic route after metabolism to inactive metabolites.

Conditions Treated with Xalatan .005 %

Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) - POAG is characterized by a progressive increase in intra-ocular pressure that damages the optic nerve. By augmenting uveoscleral outflow, Xalatan reduces IOP and delays visual field loss.

Ocular hypertension - Patients with elevated IOP but without optic-nerve damage are at risk of developing glaucoma. Lowering IOP with Xalatan reduces the likelihood of conversion to glaucomatous disease.

Both indications are supported by large, multicenter clinical trials (e.g., the Latanoprost Ophthalmic Solution Trial) that demonstrated a mean IOP reduction of 25-30 % compared with baseline, with a safety profile comparable to other prostaglandin analogues.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Xalatan .005 %

• Anterior uveitis adjunct therapy - Small case series have reported that low-dose latanoprost can help control IOP spikes associated with uveitic inflammation when conventional agents are insufficient. This use is not FDA-approved and should be considered only under specialist supervision.

• Optic-nerve head edema (Papilledema) - Experimental studies suggest prostaglandin analogues may influence cerebrospinal fluid dynamics around the optic nerve, but clinical evidence remains limited. Use for papilledema is investigational.

• Neuroprotection research - Laboratory models have examined latanoprost’s potential to protect retinal ganglion cells from ischemic injury. Human data are absent, and the application remains experimental.

All off-label applications lack formal regulatory approval. Patients should discuss any such use with a qualified ophthalmologist, who can weigh potential benefits against unknown risks.

Is Xalatan .005 % the Right Medication for You?

Xalatan is appropriate for adults diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension who require a once-daily IOP-lowering therapy. It is especially useful for patients who have not achieved target pressure with beta-blockers or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, or who prefer a regimen with minimal dosing frequency.

Contraindications include:

• Known hypersensitivity to latanoprost or any component of the formulation (e.g., benzalkonium chloride).
• Active ocular infection or inflammation where prostaglandin analogues may exacerbate the condition.

Caution is advised in patients with a history of herpetic keratitis, severe eyelash growth (hypertrichosis), or those who have had recent intra-ocular surgery. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid latanoprost unless the potential benefit justifies the risk, as safety data are limited.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Conjunctival hyperemia - Redness of the eye occurs in up to 30 % of users.
• Increased eyelash growth - Longer, thicker eyelashes are frequently reported and are usually reversible after discontinuation.
• Eye irritation or foreign-body sensation - Mild discomfort may be experienced after instillation.

Rare

• Periocular skin hyperpigmentation - Darkening of the skin around the eyelid occurs in a small percentage of patients.
• Anterior uveitis flare - Very rare reports of inflammation secondary to prostaglandin exposure.

Serious

• Severe ocular inflammation - Cases of uveitis or keratitis requiring medical intervention.
• Vision-changing cataract formation - Although not directly caused by latanoprost, monitoring is essential in long-term therapy.

Interactions

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - Topical NSAIDs may reduce the efficacy of latanoprost by interfering with prostaglandin pathways.
• Other IOP-lowering agents - Concomitant use may have additive IOP-reduction; careful titration and monitoring are required.
• Systemic drugs - No clinically significant oral drug-drug interactions have been identified, but patients should report all medications to their eye care provider.

Patients should avoid touching the tip of the dropper to any surface, including the eye, to prevent contamination and potential infection.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Standard dosing - One drop (approximately .05 ml) into the affected eye(s) once daily, preferably in the evening (around 8 PM). The bottle should be shaken gently before first use to ensure uniform suspension.

Missed dose - If a dose is forgotten, instill it as soon as the patient remembers, provided at least 4 hours have passed since the previous dose. If it is nearing the time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular evening schedule. Doubling doses is not recommended.

Overdose - Accidental administration of more than one drop per eye is unlikely to cause systemic toxicity due to rapid ocular absorption and short plasma half-life. Nevertheless, patients should contact a healthcare professional if they experience persistent eye irritation, severe redness, or systemic symptoms such as headache or nausea.

Practical precautions -

• Do not apply the medication with contact lenses in place; remove lenses, wait 15 minutes after instillation, then reinsert.
• Avoid alcohol consumption if operating heavy machinery, as visual acuity may be transiently affected by ocular discomfort.
• Store the bottle at room temperature (15-30 °C) away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze.

FAQ

• How should I store Xalatan .005 % during travel?   The bottle should be kept at room temperature and protected from extreme heat or cold. When flying, place it in a carry-on bag to avoid temperature fluctuations in the cargo hold.

• Can I use Xalatan if I wear eye makeup?   Makeup should be removed before instilling the drops to prevent contamination of the medication. Apply the drop, wait a few minutes, then you may reapply makeup if desired.

• What inactive ingredients are present in the formulation?   The solution contains benzalkonium chloride (preservative), sodium chloride, sodium phosphate dibasic, and purified water. These excipients stabilize the pH and maintain sterility.

• Is there a difference between Xalatan and generic latanoprost tablets?   Xalatan is an ophthalmic solution; latanoprost is not available as an oral tablet. The active molecule is identical, but the dosage form and absorption characteristics differ markedly.

• Will Xalatan affect my blood pressure or heart rate?   Systemic exposure after ocular administration is minimal, and clinically relevant effects on blood pressure or heart rate have not been demonstrated in controlled studies.

• Can I drive after using Xalatan?   Most patients experience no visual impairment after instillation. If transient blurry vision occurs, wait a few minutes before operating a vehicle.

• Do I need to avoid swimming while using Xalatan?   Swimming is permissible, but patients should protect the eyes from chlorinated water for at least 24 hours after each dose to avoid dilution of the medication.

• How long does a 2.5 ml bottle typically last?   Assuming one drop per eye per day, a 2.5 ml bottle contains roughly 50 drops, enough for about 25 days of treatment for a single eye or 12 days for both eyes.

• Is Xalatan safe for people with a family history of glaucoma?   Family history alone does not contraindicate use. However, individuals with a hereditary risk should undergo regular eye examinations to determine whether prophylactic treatment is appropriate.

• What should I do if I experience excessive eyelash growth?   This side effect is generally benign and reversible after discontinuation. If the growth is cosmetically concerning, patients can discuss alternative IOP-lowering agents with their eye specialist.

Glossary

Uveoscleral outflow

The secondary pathway through which aqueous humor drains from the eye, passing between the ciliary muscle and the sclera.

Prodrug

An inactive compound that is converted into an active drug by metabolic processes-in this case, corneal esterases convert latanoprost ester to its active acid form.

FP receptor

A specific prostaglandin-F receptor located in ocular tissues; activation leads to changes that increase fluid outflow.

Hypertrichosis

Excessive growth of hair; in the context of Xalatan, it commonly refers to lengthened eyelashes.

Buying Xalatan .005 % from Our Online pharmacy

Patients who encounter high out-of-pocket costs or limited local availability can obtain Xalatan .005 % through our online pharmacy. The service sources the medication from licensed, internationally accredited suppliers, ensuring that each bottle meets the same quality standards as those sold in regulated pharmacies.

• Cost-effective pricing - By purchasing directly from manufacturers and bulk distributors, the pharmacy can offer a price that approaches the product’s wholesale cost, reducing the financial burden for patients.
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For individuals facing barriers such as insurance restrictions, geographic isolation, or shortage of the product in local pharmacies, this online channel provides a secure and affordable alternative to obtain the medication they need.

Disclaimer

The information presented about Xalatan .005 % is intended for general educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice. Treatment decisions, including any off-label use, must be made under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Readers are presumed to be competent adults capable of evaluating health information. Our online pharmacy supplies Xalatan .005 % to individuals who may have limited access through conventional pharmacy channels or who are seeking cost-effective generic alternatives. Always consult an eye care provider before initiating, modifying, or discontinuing any therapy.