Latanoprost: Eye Pressure Medication and What You Need to Know

When your eye pressure stays too high, it can quietly damage your vision over time—that’s where latanoprost, a prostaglandin analog used to reduce intraocular pressure in glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It’s one of the most prescribed eye drops for this condition, often taken just once a day at night. Unlike older glaucoma meds that require multiple daily doses, latanoprost works by helping fluid drain more easily from the eye, lowering pressure without major side effects for most people.

It’s part of a group called prostaglandin analogs, a class of eye drops that increase uveoscleral outflow to reduce intraocular pressure. Other drugs in this group include bimatoprost, another prostaglandin analog used for glaucoma and eyelash growth, and travoprost, a similar medication with slightly different dosing and side effect profiles. These aren’t the only options, though. Many patients start with beta-blockers like timolol or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors like dorzolamide, but latanoprost often wins out because it’s once-daily and has fewer systemic effects.

What you might not realize is that latanoprost doesn’t just lower pressure—it can change your eyes too. Some users notice their iris color darkening over months or years, especially if they have mixed-color eyes. Eyelashes may grow longer and thicker, which some people like, others find odd. It’s not dangerous, but it’s permanent. Also, if you wear contacts, you’ll need to take them out before using the drops and wait 15 minutes before putting them back in. And while it’s generally safe, skipping doses or stopping without talking to your doctor can cause pressure to spike again.

You’ll find real-world experiences in the posts below—people comparing latanoprost to other glaucoma treatments, sharing how they manage side effects, or switching from older meds because of cost or convenience. Some talk about combining it with other drops, others share how they remembered to take it every night. There’s no one-size-fits-all fix for eye pressure, but latanoprost remains a go-to for millions because it works simply, reliably, and with minimal hassle.