February 9, 2010
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Drug Factsheets

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Xalatan

(latanoprost)

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

02231493 XALATAN 50µG / ML OPHTALMIC SOLUTION

How does Xalatan work? What will it do for me?

Latanoprost is used for the reduction of pressure in the eye for people with open-angle glaucoma and intraocular hypertension (increased pressure in the eye).

Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Xalatan?

The recommended dose of latanoprost is 1 drop to the affected eye(s) once daily, preferably in the evening. This medication should not be used more than once a day.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to show you the correct way to instill the eye drops. This medication is for external use only. Do not allow the dropper tip of the bottle to touch your eye or other surrounding structures, because this could contaminate the tip with common bacteria known to cause eye infections.

Before opening, keep the container of eye drops in the fridge, out of direct light. Once the bottle has been opened, keep the eye drops in a cool place (refrigerate if possible). Latanoprost eye drops must be used within 6 weeks after opening the container.

Latanoprost eye drops may be used with other eye medications intended to reduce pressure inside the eye. If more than one type of eye drop is being applied, use the medications at least five minutes apart.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the one above, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is very important that this medication be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular schedule. Do not double doses.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Xalatan come in?

Each mL of a sterile, isotonic, buffered aqueous solution, for topical ophthalmic administration, contains latanoprost 50 µg. One drop contains approximately 1.5 µg of latanoprost. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzalkonium chloride as a preservative, disodium hydrogen phosphate anhydrous, sodium chloride, sodium dihydrogen phosphate monohydrate and water for injection. Buffered to a pH of approximately 6.7 and is isotonic with lacrimal fluid.

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

Who should NOT take Xalatan?

Latanoprost eye drops should not be used by anyone who is allergic to latanoprost, benzalkonium chloride, or any of the ingredients of the medication.

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