Latanoprost, sold as Xalatan, is an ophthalmic medication that is used to treat glaucoma. The mechanism of action of the medication is to increase the outflow of fluid from inside the eye to lower the eye pressure. Like all medications, this medication has some side effects that range from bothersome to serious; some are permanent and others resolve after the discontinuation of the medication.
Common Ocular Side Effects
According to the Xalatan package insert, side effects were seen in 5 to 15 percent of patients in the clinical trials for this medication. These include blurry vision, burning and stinging, red eye, itching, and increased pigmentation of the iris, which is more noticeable in patients with light eyes, as noted in the package insert. The change in iris color may be permanent even after discontinuing the medication.
Less Common Ocular Side Effects
Less common side effects found in 1 to 4 percent of patients in the clinical trials include dry eye, tearing, lid crusting, lid swelling and light sensitivity, according to the package insert. As noted on the Mayo Clinic website, if the patient notices lid crusting, swelling or pain, the eye doctor should be alerted to the problem.
Rare Ocular Side Effects
Side effects that were noticed in less than 1 percent of patients using latanoprost include conjunctivitis and double vision, as noted in the package insert. As noted on the Mayo Clinic website, patients should let their physicians know if either of these symptoms occurs.
Other Effects
Other effects have been noticed in patients who have been using Xalatan; these have been reported by physicians in practice, according to the package insert. These include eyelash growth and darkening, eyelid darkening, intraocular inflammation, swelling in the back of the eye, and headache. These symptoms should be reported to the prescribing eye doctor as well.
Systemic Side Effects
Systemic side effects were found with the use of Xalatan, as noted in the package insert. These effects include upper respiratory infection, which was seen in 4 percent of patients during the clinical trials, and chest pain, muscle pain and rash, which was seen in 1 to 2 percent of all patients. The doctor should be notified immediately if a patient experiences chest pain or difficulty breathing. If a skin rash or cold or flu symptoms occur, the patient should alert the physician as soon as possible.
