Xalatan is an ophthalmic medication that contains the active ingredient Latanoprost. It is supplied in a 2.5 ml bottle of sterile eye drops and belongs to the therapeutic class of ophthalmic care. In Hong Kong, Xalatan is classified as a prescription-only medicine and is regulated by the Department of Health (HA). The formulation is intended for the topical treatment of elevated intra-ocular pressure (IOP) in patients with certain types of glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Latanoprost is a synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F₂α. When instilled into the eye, it binds to prostaglandin F receptors in the ciliary body, leading to two main effects:
The onset of IOP reduction typically occurs within 12 hours after the first dose, with peak effect seen around 8-12 hours. The intra-ocular pressure-lowering effect is sustained with once-daily dosing, and the medication does not significantly alter systemic blood pressure or heart rate.
Xalatan is approved by the Hong Kong Department of Health for the following indications:
These conditions share the common feature of elevated intra-ocular pressure that can damage the optic nerve over time. By enhancing aqueous outflow, Xalatan helps to preserve visual field and prevent disease progression. It is most commonly prescribed for adult patients, though use in children is considered only under specialist supervision.
There are currently no widely accepted off-label uses of Latanoprost that are supported by robust clinical evidence. Any consideration of alternative indications should be made by an ophthalmologist familiar with the patient’s ocular condition.
Absolute contraindications
Known hypersensitivity to latanoprost, any component of the formulation, or other prostaglandin analogues.
Active intra-ocular inflammation (e.g., uveitis) or infection.
Relative contraindications
Pregnancy (category C) - use only if potential benefit outweighs risk.
Breast-feeding - caution advised.
Severe ocular surface disease (e.g., dry eye syndrome) that may be exacerbated by prostaglandin-induced changes.
Patients should disclose all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and supplement medications to their ophthalmologist before initiating Xalatan.
If a dose is missed, instill the drop as soon as remembered unless it is close to the time of the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose-do not double-dose.
Signs of overdose may include excessive eye redness, pain, or blurred vision. Patients should rinse the ocular surface with sterile saline and seek urgent ophthalmic evaluation. No specific systemic antidote exists.
Xalatan can be stopped abruptly under the guidance of an eye care professional. Sudden cessation does not typically cause rebound IOP elevation, but patients should have a follow-up IOP check within one to two weeks after stopping.
This article provides educational information about Xalatan and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Treatment decisions, including the use of any medication for unapproved indications, must be made under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. The content is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical recommendations. Always consult a physician before starting, stopping, or changing any medication regimen.
Yes. The standard regimen is one drop in each affected eye once daily. The medication is formulated for bilateral use, and the dosing frequency remains once per evening.
Evening dosing aligns with the natural circadian rhythm of intra-ocular pressure, which tends to be highest at night. Applying the drop before bedtime maximizes the pressure-lowering effect during the early morning hours when many patients experience the greatest IOP rise.
Latanoprost commonly induces longer, thicker eyelashes. If the change is cosmetically undesirable, discuss alternative glaucoma therapies with your ophthalmologist; the medication can be switched without affecting overall IOP control.
Remove contact lenses before administering the drop. Wait at least 10 minutes after the eye drop has been absorbed before reinserting lenses to prevent drug residue from adhering to the lens material.
Prolonged use may cause a gradual increase in brown pigmentation of the iris, especially in individuals with lighter eye colors. This change is typically permanent, but it does not affect visual function.
Yes. Xalatan is a prescription medication and should be carried in its original container with the prescription label. Pack it in carry-on luggage and declare it if required by the destination country’s customs regulations.
Artificial tears can be used alongside Xalatan. To avoid dilution, instill the lubricating drop at least 5 minutes after the prostaglandin analogue, or apply the lubricant before Xalatan and wait a short interval.
A legitimate Xalatan bottle bears the manufacturer’s logo, the name “Xalatan,” the concentration “0.005 %,” a batch number, and an expiry date printed on the label. The bottle is typically amber-colored to protect the solution from light.
Latanoprost (Xalatan) reduces IOP primarily by enhancing uveoscleral outflow, whereas timolol reduces aqueous production via beta-blockade. Both are effective, but prostaglandin analogues often achieve greater IOP reduction with once-daily dosing and have a different side-effect profile.
Coverage varies by individual health plan and the prescribing ophthalmologist’s assessment. Patients should verify eligibility with their insurer or the Hospital Authority’s subsidy programs.
