CONTRIBUTOR(S): Vetstream Ltd, Natasha Mitchell, Fear Free,
Medication: Latanoprost
Medication: Latanoprost
Your dog has been prescribed latanoprost ophthalmic solution to treat glaucoma (high pressure in the eye).
Key points:
• This is not a licensed veterinary product. Your veterinarian will explain about off-license use of medications.
• Apply directly to the eye once or twice daily, as directed.
This information sheet is designed to help answer commonly asked questions and help you give the medication safely and effectively to your pet. It does not contain all available information for this medication. If you have other questions or need more information, contact your veterinarian or pharmacist.Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Name, Brand names, Class of medication and Storage
Name
- Latanoprost (la-tan-oh-prost).
Brand name
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK, Europe or the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug. Your veterinarian can explain off-license use of medications to you.
Class of medication
- Synthetic prostaglandin F2-alpha analogue.
- Anti-glaucoma medication.
Storage
- Store in the fridge when unopened, but store at room temperature once opened.
- Discard after it has been open for 28 days.
Why has my dog been prescribed latanoprost?
Your veterinarian has prescribed latanoprost to reduce the pressure in your dog’s eye. This medication works by reducing the amount of fluid within the eyeball, which in turn reduces the pressure within the eye.
How is the medication given?
Latanoprost liquid is applied to the affected eye. It is usually applied once daily but this can vary. Your veterinarian will demonstrate how to apply the drops. If you are struggling to apply the drops at home, let your veterinarian know as soon as possible, as it is important that your dog receives this medication. If left untreated, glaucoma is painful and can result in blindness.
If you are also applying other medications to the eye, leave at least 5 minutes between applying different products.
When treating the eye, wipe away any excess medication using a clean cloth.
Are there any side-effects or drug interactions?
Side-effects may include irritation to the eye (redness of the white around the eye). A small pupil is expected. There is little information regarding side-effects in dogs, but human patients have reported darkening of the iris, redness and irritation of the eye and pain.
Latanoprost should not be used in patients with uveitis or anterior lens luxation. Latanoprost should not be used with therapeutic soft contact lenses.
How long will my dog need to receive this medication?
Your veterinarian will advise as to how long your pet may need to be on this medication.
How should I dispose of this medication if I don’t use it all?
Dispose of any unused latanoprost safely – do not flush down the toilet or sink. Ask your veterinary team if they take back medication for disposal. Do not save latanoprost for future use or give to other pets.
What if I miss a dose or give an extra dose?
If you miss a dose, give the dose as soon as possible but do not give a double dose. Make sure the dose given does not exceed the total recommended dose in any 24-hour period.
My dog is unwell, should I still give the drug?
If your pet is unwell, contact your veterinarian for advice.
What should I do if this medication is accidentally given to another pet or taken by a human?
Latanoprost should only be given to the dog that it has been prescribed for. If accidentally given to other pets, contact your veterinarian for advice.
If accidentally consumed by, or applied to a human, speak to your primary care physician or poison control center immediately.
Will my dog need to be monitored while on latanoprost?
Your dog will be closely monitored by your veterinarian whilst on this medication, as glaucoma is painful and can result in blindness if not controlled.
Further information
If you have any concerns, further information on latanoprost can be found on the package insert or by contacting your veterinarian.
Europe & UK
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the UK or Europe. Your veterinary surgeon may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
US
- There are no licensed veterinary products containing this drug in the US. Your veterinarian may prescribe a human medication containing this drug and will explain off-license use of medications to you.
Always follow the recommended dosage and contact your veterinary team or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding your dog’s medication.