Latanoprost (also known as prostaglandin analogs) is a medication that can help with (intraocular pressure) IOP reduction (treat glaucoma) during the day and night. It is most effective when used at night before bed. While it is safe to use in the morning, the effect is more pronounced when used at night. If you are considering using latanoprost, be sure to speak with your doctor first to see if it is the right medication for you.
The painful symptoms of glaucoma can be difficult to deal with. You may experience intense eye pain, nausea, and headaches among other things like seeing rings around lights or having blurred vision.
There are many other glaucoma medications on the market but latanoprost is unique in that it can be used as both a preventative measure and treatment. If you have glaucoma or are at risk for developing it (due to family history or other factors), using latanoprost can help lower your IOP and potentially prevent the disease from progressing. Latanoprost offers that much-needed relief by decreasing the pressure in your eye. It’s a quick and easy way to get some pain relief, quickly.
Related article: Does Latanoprost Need to Be Refrigerated?
When Is the Best Time to Take Glaucoma Eye Drops?
A prospective study showed that the best time to take your latanoprost (or any other glaucoma eye drop) is at night before you go to bed. This is because the pressure in your eyes is usually at its highest in the morning, so using the medication at night will help to keep the pressure down throughout the day. For example, if a single dose needs to be applied twice each day then it would be recommended before brushing teeth in the morning and evening.
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when it comes to taking latanoprost or any other medication. You should also make sure to use the medication as directed and not skip doses. If you miss a dose, be sure to take it as soon as possible. It’s also important to remember that latanoprost is not a cure for glaucoma, but rather a way to manage the disease and
To avoid any discomfort or damage to your eyes, make sure you remove any contact lenses before using eye drops. Wait at least 15 minutes after using it before putting back your contact lenses.
If you forget a dose of this eye drop, just skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. If you are unsure contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Related article: Can Diabetes Cause Glaucoma and other Eye Conditions?
Why Should You Take Glaucoma Eye Drops at Night?
There are a few reasons but the most important one is that the pressure in your eyes is at its highest in the morning. So, using the glaucoma eye drops at night can help to keep the pressure down throughout the day.
Another reason is that latanoprost works best when used at night. The medication can help with IOP reduction on the optic nerve during the day and night but it is most effective when used at night before bed.
Inconsistent use of drops will increase or decrease IOP and has been scientifically proven detrimental. When you miss a dose, take it later during the day when remembered so as not to cause harm with inconsistent doses.
Related article: Is Flying With Glaucoma Safe?
Why Is Travatan Z Taken at Night?
Travatan Z is another type of glaucoma eye drop that is used to lower IOP. Like latanoprost, it is most effective when used at night before bed.
There are a few reasons why Travatan Z is taken at night. One reason is that the pressure in your eyes is highest in the morning, so using the medication at night can help keep the pressure down throughout the day.
Travatan z is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. One drop in the evening significantly reduced elevated eye pressure without any side effects reported so far.
Safe Ways to Apply Your Eye Drops
The best and safest way to apply eye drops are as follows:
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Wash your hands with soap and water.
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Check the expiration date on the bottle to make sure the eye drops are still good.
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Open the bottle by unscrewing the cap, being careful not to touch the dropper tip with anything.
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Tilt your head back and pull down on your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
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Gently squeeze one drop of medication into the pocket.
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Close your eye and apply pressure for two to three minutes by gently pressing on the inside corner of your eye (near your nose). This will prevent the medication from draining out.
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Repeat these steps for your other eye if you are using eye drops in both eyes.
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If you are using more than one type of eye drop, wait at least five minutes before applying the second drop. This will prevent the first eye drop from being washed out.
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After you have applied the eye drops, screw the cap back on and store the bottle in a cool, dry place, or in your medication cooler.
Half of the patients stop taking their prescription glaucoma eye drops after one year, leaving them vulnerable to vision loss. A once-a-night routine before bed can help improve adherence and retention rates for this important medication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Take Latanoprost in the Morning?
Yes, you can, but it is most effective when used at night before bed. This is because the pressure in your eyes is highest in the morning and using the medication at night can help keep the pressure down throughout the day. Morning dosing won't hurt but it's better to do evening dosing in the affected eye to help with IOP lowering.
How Long Do You Keep Your Eyes Shut After Using Glaucoma Drops?
Eyes drops are usually absorbed within a minute or two, but it is important to keep your eyes closed for at least two minutes after applying the drops. This will prevent the medication from draining out.
Does Latanoprost Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, Latanoprost should be refrigerated. It should not be frozen.
Make sure they're out of direct sunlight because exposure to it and heat could change how well Latanoprost works.
To store your medication, 4AllFamily has different medical coolers and portable fridges to store your medicines. It can keep your medication cool for up to 72 hours. It's also TSA-approved so you can take your medication on any trip without worry.
What Are Common Side Effects of Latanoprost
If you are looking for a medication to help lower your IOP, latanoprost is a good option to consider. It is safe, effective, and can be used both as a preventative measure and treatment. Be sure to speak with your doctor first to see if it is right for you.
Latanoprost is generally well-tolerated with few side effects. The most common side effect is temporary stinging or burning of the eyes when the drops are first applied. This usually goes away within a few minutes. Other potential side effects include temporary changes in eye color, darkening of the eyelids, inflammation, and itchy eyes. Others may experience redness, irritation, or pain around the eyes due to various reasons such as blepharitis.
Related article: 4AllFamily's Eye Drops Carrying Cases to Keep Them Cool While Traveling!
Conclusion
Latanoprost should be used at night before bed because that is when the pressure in your eyes is highest. This will help keep the pressure down throughout the day. It is important to keep your eyes shut for at least two minutes after applying the drops to prevent them from draining out. Latanoprost is best stored in a cool, dry place, and can be easily transported without harm in a medical cooler from 4AllFamily.
Comments
4AllFamily Customer Care Team said:
Hi June,
Thanks for sharing. Some studies indeed show that taking Latanoprost eye drops before bedtime is more effective, whatever your bedtime is! If you have any doubt, please consult with your doctor.
Best regards,
4AllFamily Customer Care Team
June said:
I am taking Latanoprost. Take at bedtime. But my bedtime is between 6:30 pm and 7:30 pm. So I usually do the drops around 6 or 6:30 pm