Brand name:IOPTAME
(Latanoprost, Xalatan)
Pronounced: ZAL-a-tan
Generic name: Latanoprost
Why is IOPTAME prescribed?
IOPTAME is used to relieve high pressure within the eye (a hallmark
of the condition known as open-angle glaucoma). It can be prescribed
alone or with other glaucoma medications.
Most important fact about IOPTAME
Be careful not to let the tip of the IOPTAME bottle touch your eye
or anything else. Otherwise, the contents could become contaminated.
A contaminated solution can cause an eye infection and lead to serious
damage, including loss of vision.
How should you use IOPTAME without prescriptions?
Use IOPTAME exactly as prescribed. It should be applied only once
a day; more frequent administration may reduce its effectiveness. Apply
one drop to the eye in the evening. If you are using other eye drops
to lower pressure, allow at least 5 minutes between applications of
the two medications. Contact lenses should be removed before the drug
is applied. Wait 15 minutes before reinserting them.
If you miss a dose IOPTAME
Apply it as soon as possible. If you don't remember until the next
day, skip the dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never double
the dose.
Store unopened bottles in the refrigerator. Once opened, the bottles
may be stored at room temperature for up to 6 weeks. Protect from light.
IOPTAME side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Be especially quick to report
pinkeye or any effects on the eyelids. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue using IOPTAME.
* Side effects may include:
Bloodshot eyes, blurred vision, burning, foreign body sensation, increased
pigmentation of the iris, inflammatory disease of the cornea, itching, stinging,
upper respiratory infection
Why should IOPTAME not be prescribed?
Do not use IOPTAME if you are sensitive or allergic to any of its
ingredients.
Special warnings about IOPTAME
IOPTAME may gradually turn the eye's iris brown. This change may not
be noticed for months or years. Its long-term effects are unknown,
but it may be permanent. Ask your doctor about the possibility of mismatched
eye color if you will be treating only one eye with IOPTAME.
IOPTAME may make the eyelids darker. It can gradually change the eyelashes
and fine body hair, increasing the length, thickness, color, and number
of lashes or hairs. The eyelashes may also start growing in the wrong
direction, possibly resulting in irritation to the eye.
If your eye sustains an injury or becomes infected, or you have eye
surgery, you may need to start a new bottle of IOPTAME. Be sure to
check with your doctor.
IOPTAME may cause blurred vision. Make certain it does not have this
effect on you before you attempt to drive.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking IOPTAME
free rx.
Mixing IOPTAME with eye drops containing thiomersal can cause the
formation of solid substances in the eye. To avoid this problem, administer
the drops at least 5 minutes apart.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
The effects of IOPTAME during pregnancy and breastfeeding have not
been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant,
notify your doctor immediately. It is not known whether IOPTAME makes
it way into breast milk. If you are nursing and need to use IOPTAME,
your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding while using
IOPTAME.
Recommended dosage for IOPTAME
The usual dose is 1 drop in the affected eye once every evening.
Overdosage
