Medications and Drugs
Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
GENERIC NAME: bimatoprost
BRAND NAME: Latisse, Lumigan
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Bimatoprost is a synthetic (man-made) drug
that resembles and mimics the effects of natural chemicals (prostaglandins)
produced by the body. It is used for reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and
increasing the growth of eyelashes. The exact mechanism of action is unknown.
Bimatoprost may reduce IOP by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor from the
eye of individuals with narrow angle glaucoma. Excessive aqueous humor may cause
optic nerve damage and visual loss. It may increase eyelash growth by increasing
the duration of the growing phase of the eyelash. The FDA approved Lumigan in
March 2001 and Latisse in December 2008.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
PREPARATIONS: Solution (eye drops): 0.03 mg/ml
STORAGE: Solutions should be store at 2-25 C (36-77 F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Bimatoprost is used for reducing IOP in individuals
with narrow angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It also is used for
increasing thickness, length, and darkness of eyelashes.
DOSING: The recommended dosage of bimatoprost for reducing IOP is one
drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening. More frequent
administration may reduce the IOP-reducing effect. Reduction in IOP starts
approximately four hours after administration and maximum effect occurs in
approximately 8 to 12 hours. The recommended regimen for increasing eyelash
growth is one drop applied with an applicator evenly along the skin of the upper
eyelid at the base of the eyelashes of each eye every evening.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Bimatoprost should be administered at least five
minutes before or after other eye medications. Use of bimatoprost for eyelash
growth may increase or decrease the effect of prostaglandin-like drugs used for
treating elevated IOP. Bimatoprost solution contains benzalkonium chloride,
which may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Contact lenses should be removed
prior to application of bimatoprost. Contact lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes
following administration of bimatoprost.
PREGNANCY: Use of bimatoprost in
pregnancy has not been adequately
evaluated.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is not known whether bimatoprost is excreted in
human breast milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: Common side effects include itching of the eyes, eye
irritation, dry eyes, eye redness, eye lash darkening and reversible darkening
of skin around the eyes. Bimatoprost may also cause permanent brown pigmentation
in the colored part of the eye and hair growth in other areas of the body that
it comes in contact with.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 5/1/2009
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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