Common questions about latanoprost - Brand names: Xalatan, Monopost

Latanoprost is from a group of medicines known as prostaglandin analogues.

It works by increasing the natural flow of fluid from inside your eye into your bloodstream. This lowers the pressure within your eye and stops your sight getting worse.

The pressure in your eye will start to reduce 3 to 4 hours after using the eye drops.

Latanoprost reaches full effect after 8 to 12 hours, and the reduced pressure will last for at least 24 hours.

Latanoprost can be used for many years with no long-term side effects.

There are other eye medicines that work in a similar way to latanoprost, including:

• bimatoprost
• tafluprost
• travoprost

Latanoprost can be combined with a beta blocker called timolol. These eye drops are known by the brand names Xalacom and Fixapost.

They can be prescribed to reduce high pressure in the eye, by helping to drain fluid from inside it.

Treatments for glaucoma can include laser treatments and surgery. They cannot reverse any loss of vision, but they can help to stop it getting worse.

In rare cases, a side effect of latanoprost can be chest pain (angina) and a fast heart rate (palpitations).

However, if you have an existing heart condition such as atrial fibrillation, there are no reports of latanoprost making it worse.

Latanoprost does not stop any type of contraception from working, including the combined pill or emergency contraception.

You may have blurred vision for for a short while after putting the latanoprost drops in. If this happens to you, do not drive a car, ride a bike, or use tools or machinery until you can see clearly again.

Many people with glaucoma can continue driving a car or motorbike, but their eyesight must be up to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency's (DVLA's) standards.

GOV.UK has more information on eye conditions and driving

Yes, you can drink alcohol with latanoprost.

You can eat and drink normally while using latanoprost.