Specifically, latanoprost eye drops are approved to lower pressure in the eye when it’s increased due to glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
This article describes possible side effects of latanoprost eye drops. You can explore this overview article to learn more about latanoprost eye drops, including the drug’s uses, dosage, ways to save on cost, and more.
Latanoprost eye drops are a generic version of the brand-name drug Xalatan. Latanoprost only comes as eye drops. It’s not available in another form.
Need a diagnosis or prescription quickly? For certain health conditions, Optum Perks offers personalized on-demand care with no appointment required. For $25, answer a few questions online and receive a diagnosis and treatment plan from a board certified healthcare professional in 15 minutes or less. Get started here.
More common side effects of latanoprost
Latanoprost eye drops may cause mild or serious side effects. Below are some of the more common side effects of this medication.
Commonly reported side effects of latanoprost eye drops include:
- itching, burning, and stinging of the eye
- darkening skin of the eyelid
- blurred vision*
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects of latanoprost in detail” section below.
Mild side effects of latanoprost
Latanoprost may cause certain mild side effects. Usually, mild side effects are temporary and can be easily managed. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have side effects that don’t go away or become bothersome.
Mild side effects of latanoprost eye drops that occurred in studies include:
- itching, burning, and stinging of the eye
- darkening skin of the eyelid
- darkening of the iris
- blurred vision*
Latanoprost eye drops may cause more mild side effects than those listed above. For details, see the drug’s prescribing information.
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects of latanoprost in detail” section below.
Serious side effects of latanoprost
Latanoprost may cause certain serious side effects. If you have any serious side effects from latanoprost eye drops, call your doctor right away. But if you think you’re having a medical emergency or your side effects feel life threatening, take immediate action. Call 911, or a local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.
After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. Visit MedWatch’s website if you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with latanoprost eye drops.
Serious side effects reported with latanoprost eye drops include:
- sensitivity to light
- vision loss
- pain, swelling, or redness in the eye
- changes in eyelashes*
- macular edema*
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects of latanoprost in detail” section below.
Allergic reaction
For some people, latanoprost eye drops can cause an allergic reaction. This side effect was reported in the drug’s studies.
In general, symptoms of allergic reaction can be mild or serious. You can learn more about possible symptoms in this article.
Ways to manage
For mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They’ll also let you know whether you should keep using the medication.
For severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening. If you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to latanoprost eye drops, your doctor may recommend using a different medication instead.
Side effects of latanoprost in detail
Below you’ll find details on some of the side effects of latanoprost eye drops.
Changes in eyelashes
Changes in eyelashes were reported with latanoprost eye drops after the drug was approved for use. They did not occur in the drug’s studies. This side effect is usually mild.
Changes in eyelashes may include:
- increased length
- increased thickness
- darkening color
- eyelashes that grow in the wrong direction
If an eyelash grows toward your eye, it’s known as an ingrown eyelash. If left untreated, ingrown lashes that rub against your eye for a long time can lead to a corneal abrasion (a scratch on your eye).
Ways to manage
If you notice changes in your eyelashes with latanoprost eye drops, tell your doctor. They can evaluate your symptoms and help determine how to treat them, if necessary. If your doctor recommends stopping treatment with latanoprost eye drops, your eyelashes should return to their usual state.
Blurred vision
Blurred vision is a possible side effect of latanoprost eye drops. In studies, blurred vision was commonly reported. This side effect is usually mild.
With blurred vision, you have changes in vision that may make things appear less clear, dim, or clouded. It can also affect your peripheral (side) vision.
Ways to manage
If you have symptoms of blurred vision, tell your doctor right away. They’ll likely recommend other eye drops to use in addition to latanoprost. This can help relieve blurred vision.
Macular edema
Latanoprost eye drops may cause macular edema. This side effect didn’t occur in studies of the eye drops. But it has been reported since the drug was approved for use. This side effect may be serious.
Macular edema is a buildup of fluid in the eye’s macula (the center of the retina). This swelling can affect vision. The condition is usually painless, and symptoms may include:
- having blurred or wavy vision
- seeing colors that appear faded or dull
- having difficulty reading
Certain factors can increase the risk of macular edema during treatment with latanoprost eye drops. These include certain health conditions, such as diabetes and a history of macular edema.
Ways to manage
If you have symptoms of macular edema, tell your doctor right away. They’ll likely recommend treating the swelling in your eye.
Common questions about side effects of latanoprost
Here are answers to some common questions about side effects of latanoprost eye drops. If you have other questions, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Does latanoprost cause certain side effects in older adults?
No, latanoprost eye drops should not cause specific side effects in adults ages 65 years and older. It’s expected to be safe and effective for use in older adults.
The average age of people who used latanoprost in studies was 65 years old. And similar side effects were reported in older and younger adults.
If you have concerns about how your age may affect your risk of side effects, talk with your doctor.
Does latanoprost cause long-term side effects?
Yes, in some cases, latanoprost eye drops may cause long-term side effects. These can last for a while or be permanent after you’ve stopped using the drug.
Examples of long-term side effects include:
- changes in eye color
- darkening of the eyelid
- changes in eyelashes*
- macular edema*
Talk with your doctor to learn more about these side effects and how to best manage them. Ask your doctor for more information about how long these side effects of latanoprost eye drops may last.
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects of latanoprost in detail” section above.
Why should I use latanoprost at night? If I use it during the day, will I have certain side effects?
Doctors usually recommend using latanoprost eye drops at night because the drops can cause irritated eyes and blurred vision.* However, the risk of side effects is the same regardless of whether you use latanoprost eye drops at night or during the day.
If you would like to use latanoprost eye drops at a different time of the day, talk with your doctor.
* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects of latanoprost in detail” section above.
Can latanoprost cause changes in blood pressure?
No, latanoprost will not cause changes in blood pressure. That said, it will affect your intraocular pressure (IOP). This is the pressure inside of your eye.
Certain conditions can raise IOP, too. These include glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Left untreated, increased eye pressure can cause lasting vision damage.
If you’d like to know more about this, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.
Coupon for latanoprost
Visit this page to access Optum Perks coupons and get price estimates for latanoprost when you use the coupons. These coupons can provide significant savings on your prescription costs.
Note: Optum Perks coupons cannot be used with insurance copays or benefits.
Download the free Optum Perks Discount Card to save up to 80% on some prescription medications.
