Bimatoprost (Into the eye)
bye-MAT-oh-prost
The eyedrops reduce pressure inside the eye. The eyelash solution helps eyelashes grow.
Drug classes
Antiglaucoma, Ophthalmologic Agent (About this – PubMed Health)
Uses
Uses of This Medicine
Bimatoprost ophthalmic (eye) drop is used to treat certain diseases of the eye like open-angle glaucoma and ocular (eye) hypertension which occurs in many people as they grow older. Glaucoma is caused by high pressure in your eye and can lead to pain from pressure in your eye and then can eventually harm your vision. This medicine can help you keep your sight by reducing the pressure in your eye and stopping eye pain.
Bimatoprost ophthalmic (eye) solution is also used to treat eyelash hypotrichosis (not enough eyelashes) by increasing their growth and making the eyelashes longer, thicker, and darker.
This medicine is available only with your doctor’s prescription.
Other uses (PubMed Health)
How To Use
Liquid, Drop
Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after using this medicine.
Do not use other eyedrops within 5 minutes before or 5 minutes after putting bimatoprost drops in your eyes.
Remove contact lenses before you use this medicine. Wait at least 15 minutes before you put the contact lenses back in.
To use the eyedrop (Lumigan®):
Tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye to form a pocket. Hold the dropper close to your eye with the other hand. Drop the correct number of drops into the pocket made between your lower lid and eyeball. Gently close your eyes. Place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for 1 minute. If you think you did not get the drop of medicine into your eye properly, repeat the directions with another drop. Do not rinse or wipe the dropper or allow it to touch anything, including your eye. Recap the bottle immediately after use.To use the eyelash solution (Latisse™):
Wash your face, and remove any eye make-up. Place 1 drop of the solution on the disposable sterile applicator. Apply it evenly along the skin at the base of the upper eyelashes. Remove any excess solution around the eyes with a tissue or cloth. Use a new applicator to apply solution to the base of the upper eyelashes on the other eye. Do not apply this medicine on the lower eyelashes. Throw the applicator away after each use.Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
Use only the brand of medicine your doctor prescribed. Other brands may not work the same way.
Missed Lumigan® dose: Use the medicine as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and use a regular amount of the eyedrops. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Missed Latisse™ solution dose: Skip the missed dose and apply it the next evening. Do not apply extra solution to make up for the missed dose.
Store the medicine in a closed container in the refrigerator or at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Do not freeze the medicine.
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
When Not To Use
This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to bimatoprost.
Warnings
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have an eye infection, lens problems, or other eye problems (such as iritis or uveitis).
If you hurt your eye, develop an eye infection, or need to have eye surgery, talk with your doctor right away. You may need to change your medicine or stop using it.
This medicine may make your eyes or eyelids permanently darker.
Wipe off any excess medicine that comes into contact with other skin areas. The medicine may cause hair growth in those other areas.
Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.
Possible side effects
Summary More details
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Changes in vision
Discharge from the eye
Redness, pain, itching, or swelling of the eye or eyelid
If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
Darkening of the skin
Dry eyes, mild eye discomfort, or feeling that something is in your eye
Sensitivity to bright light
If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
More side effects of this drug
Brand names include
Latisse, Lumigan
There may be other brand names for this medicine.