Generic Xalatan 0.005%

Introduction

Xalatan .005 % is an ophthalmic solution containing the active compound latanoprost, a prostaglandin F₂α analogue. It is classified as an eye‑drop medication used primarily to lower intra‑ocular pressure (IOP) in adults with open‑angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. In Hong Kong, the prevalence of primary open‑angle glaucoma is rising with an ageing population, making effective IOP‑lowering agents essential for preserving visual function. Xalatan .005 % is marketed by Pfizer (original brand) and is also available as a generic latanoprost formulation supplied by reputable overseas manufacturers.

What is Xalatan .005 %?

Xalatan .005 % is a sterile, preservative‑free ophthalmic solution that delivers .005 % (50 µg/mL) of latanoprost to the ocular surface. The product is supplied in single‑dose bottles (typically 2.5 mL) with a calibrated dropper tip.

• Classification: Ophthalmic prostaglandin analogue, antiglaucoma eye drop.
• Development: Latanoprost was first synthesised in the early 199s and received regulatory approval in the United States in 1996. Pfizer introduced the brand name Xalatan for the ophthalmic formulation.
• Manufacturer: The original branded product is produced by Pfizer Inc. Generic versions are manufactured under GMP‑compliant facilities in Europe, the United States, and several Asian countries.

Xalatan .005 % is the original branded formulation; generic latanoprost eye drops contain the identical active molecule and are recognised as therapeutic equivalents by health authorities worldwide. Our online pharmacy offers these generic alternatives at a cost close to the manufacturer’s price while maintaining the same clinical efficacy.

How Xalatan .005 % Works

Latanoprost mimics the natural prostaglandin F₂α (PGF₂α) that regulates aqueous humour dynamics. After topical administration, the lipophilic molecule penetrates the corneal epithelium and binds to prostaglandin‑F receptors (FP receptors) in the ciliary body. Activation of FP receptors triggers remodeling of the extracellular matrix in the uveoscleral pathway, thereby increasing outflow of aqueous humour through the uveoscleral route.

• Therapeutic effect: By enhancing uveoscleral outflow, the intra‑ocular solution reduces IOP by an average of 20‑30 % from baseline, which is sufficient to slow optic‑nerve damage in glaucoma.
• Onset and duration: IOP reduction begins within 3–4 hours, peaks at 8–12 hours, and is sustained for roughly 24 hours. Hence once‑daily dosing is adequate for most patients.
• Clearance: Latanoprost is metabolised locally in the eye to an inactive acid; systemic absorption is minimal, resulting in a favourable safety profile.

Conditions Treated with Xalatan .005 %

• Primary open‑angle glaucoma (POAG): The most common form of glaucoma in Hong Kong, accounting for >70 % of cases. Adequate IOP control is the cornerstone of POAG management.
• Ocular hypertension (OHT): Elevated IOP without detectable optic‑nerve damage; treatment reduces the risk of conversion to glaucoma.

Both indications are approved by the Hong Kong Department of Health and are supported by large‑scale clinical trials (e.g., the Latanoprost Ophthalmic Solution Clinical Program) demonstrating superior IOP‑lowering efficacy compared with older‐generation β‑blockers.

Who is Xalatan .005 % For?

• Adults with newly diagnosed POAG or OHT: Latanoprost is recommended as first‑line therapy because of its high efficacy, once‑daily dosing, and low systemic exposure.
• Patients who have failed to achieve target IOP with β‑blockers, α‑agonists, or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: Switching to or adding latanoprost often yields additional pressure reduction.
• Individuals preferring preservative‑free formulations: Xalatan .005 % contains benzalkonium chloride‑free vehicle, reducing the risk of ocular surface irritation.

Contraindications / Situations where use is not appropriate

• Known hypersensitivity to latanoprost or any excipient in the formulation.
• Active ocular infection or inflammation (e.g., uveitis) until the condition resolves.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use only if the potential benefit outweighs the theoretical risk, as safety data are limited.

Risks, Side Effects, and Interactions

Common

• Conjunctival hyperemia (red eye) – usually mild and transient.
• Ocular irritation (foreign‑body sensation, itching).
• Increased pigmentation of the iris – gradual darkening, typically irreversible but harmless.
• Eyelash growth – lengthening and thickening of eyelashes, often considered a cosmetic benefit.

Rare

• Periorbital fat atrophy – loss of orbital fat leading to a slightly sunken appearance.
• Macular edema – especially in patients with a history of retinal vein occlusion or diabetic macular edema.
• Anterior chamber inflammation (uveitis) – may require topical steroid therapy.

Serious

• Allergic reactions (e.g., severe eyelid swelling, systemic rash) – seek immediate medical attention.
• Acute angle‑closure glaucoma – rare but possible if a patient has narrow anterior chamber angles; latanoprost may precipitate a pressure spike.

Drug–Drug Interactions

• Topical non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Concurrent use may attenuate the IOP‑lowering effect of latanoprost.
• Other prostaglandin analogues: Additive IOP reduction may increase the risk of ocular side effects (e.g., hyperemia).
• Systemic carbonic anhydrase inhibitors: No clinically significant interaction, but combined therapy may produce synergistic pressure reduction, requiring IOP monitoring.

Patients should inform their eye‑care professional of all ophthalmic and systemic medications, including over‑the‑counter eye drops.

Practical Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

• Standard dosing: One drop (≈.05 mL) of Xalatan .005 % instilled into each affected eye once daily, preferably in the evening. Evening dosing aligns with the circadian peak of IOP.
• Missed dose: If a dose is missed, instil the missed drop as soon as remembered unless it is within 4 hours of the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the regular evening schedule. Doubling the dose is not advised.
• Overdose: Accidental administration of more than one drop per eye is unlikely to produce severe systemic toxicity because of minimal absorption. Patients may experience transient ocular burning, redness, or blurred vision. If excessive amounts are applied, rinse the eye gently with sterile saline and seek ophthalmic evaluation.

Practical precautions

• Do not administer the drop immediately after using other eye medicines; wait at least 5 minutes to avoid dilution.
• Avoid contact lens wear for at least 15 minutes after instillation to prevent drug absorption onto the lens.
• Alcohol consumption does not affect latanoprost’s efficacy but excessive drinking may exacerbate ocular surface dryness.
• No specific food interactions have been identified.

Buying Xalatan .005 % from Our Online Pharmacy

Xalatan .005 % can be purchased directly from our online pharmacy in Hong Kong. We specialise in providing high‑quality generic latanoprost eye drops at a price that approaches the manufacturer’s cost, ensuring affordability without compromising safety.

• Verified quality: All products are sourced from GMP‑certified overseas suppliers and undergo independent quality testing before dispatch.
• Discrete, reliable delivery: Orders are packaged anonymously and shipped via express courier (typically 7 days) or regular airmail (approximately 3 weeks), with tracking available for every parcel.
• Online‑only accessibility: For patients who encounter stock shortages or high prices at local pharmacies, our broker service links directly with licensed international pharmacies, enabling a seamless purchase experience while respecting privacy.

By choosing our pharmacy, patients gain a cost‑effective route to obtain the medication they need, especially when insurance coverage is limited or local supply is constrained.

FAQ

• Is Xalatan .005 % available in both brand‑name and generic forms in Hong Kong?
  Yes. The original brand Xalatan is marketed by Pfizer, while several generic latanoprost products are sold under different trade names. Both contain the same active ingredient and are clinically equivalent.

• What is the proper way to store Xalatan .005 % before opening?
  Unopened bottles should be kept refrigerated at 2 °C–8 °C, protected from light. This preserves the stability of latanoprost, which is temperature‑sensitive.

• Can I keep Xalatan .005 % at room temperature after opening?
  After the first use, the bottle may be stored at controlled room temperature (2 °C–25 °C) for up to 6 weeks, provided the cap is tightly closed and the solution is not exposed to direct sunlight.

• Does Xalatan .005 % cause permanent changes in eye colour?
  Latanoprost can increase melanin production in the iris, leading to a gradual darkening that is usually permanent. The change does not affect vision but should be discussed with the prescriber.

• Will Xalatan .005 % affect my contact lens wear?
  It is recommended to insert the drop before inserting contact lenses, or remove lenses, apply the medication, and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them to avoid drug absorption onto the lens material.

• Is it safe to travel internationally with Xalatan .005 % in my luggage?
  Yes, provided the bottle is sealed and stored in a temperature‑controlled environment. For flights longer than 6 hours, keep the medication in a insulated pouch with a small ice pack to maintain the required temperature range.

• Are there differences in formulation between the US, EU, and Asian versions of latanoprost eye drops?
  All approved formulations contain .005 % latanoprost, but excipients such as the preservative system may vary. The version sold by our pharmacy is preservative‑free, matching the original Xalatan composition.

* Can Xalatan .005 % be imported for personal use into Hong Kong?**
Personal import of up to a 30‑day supply for a single individual is permitted under Hong Kong customs regulations, provided the product is accompanied by a valid prescription and originates from a licensed source.

• Does latanoprost have any impact on pregnancy or breastfeeding?
  Animal studies have not shown teratogenic effects, but human data are limited. The medication should be used only if the potential benefit outweighs any possible risk, and patients should consult their obstetrician before initiation.

• Why does my eyelash growth increase after using Xalatan .005 %?
  Latanoprost stimulates hair follicles, leading to longer, thicker eyelashes. This side effect is predictable, dose‑dependent, and reversible after discontinuation.

• What should I do if I experience severe eye redness that does not improve?
  Persistent or worsening hyperemia may indicate an allergic reaction or uveitis. Discontinue the drop and seek prompt evaluation from an eye‑care professional.

Glossary

Intra‑ocular pressure (IOP)

The fluid‑filled pressure inside the eye; elevated IOP is the primary risk factor for glaucomatous optic‑nerve damage.

Prostaglandin analogue

A synthetic compound that mimics the action of natural prostaglandins; in ophthalmology, these agents increase uveoscleral outflow to lower IOP.

Uveoscleral outflow

One of the two main pathways for aqueous humour drainage, passing through the ciliary body’s extracellular matrix and exiting the eye behind the sclera.

Hyperemia

Redness of the ocular surface due to dilation of conjunctival blood vessels, commonly seen with prostaglandin eye drops.

⚠️ Disclaimer

The information provided about Xalatan .005 % is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation. All treatment decisions should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to Xalatan .005 % for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription‑based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication.