From the Guidelines
Latanoprost, the active ingredient in Xalatan, works by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway, thereby reducing intraocular pressure. The mechanism of action (MOA) of latanoprost involves its function as a prostaglandin F2α analog. When applied topically to the eye, latanoprost is hydrolyzed to its active form, latanoprost acid, which binds to prostaglandin F receptors in the ciliary muscle 1. This binding causes remodeling of the extracellular matrix in the ciliary muscle and sclera, increasing the spaces between muscle bundles and allowing greater fluid outflow. Additionally, latanoprost may reduce intraocular pressure by relaxing the ciliary muscle and increasing metalloproteinase activity, which further enhances aqueous humor drainage.
Some key points to consider when prescribing latanoprost include:
- It is typically prescribed as eye drops (0.005% concentration) administered once daily, usually in the evening, for treating open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
- The once-daily dosing is sufficient because the pressure-lowering effect lasts for at least 24 hours, making it convenient for patients while effectively managing their condition.
- Latanoprost has been shown to be effective in lowering intraocular pressure, with studies demonstrating its efficacy in comparison to other medications, such as dorzolamide 1.
- The medication is generally well-tolerated, with common side effects including conjunctival hyperemia, corneal verticillata, and instillation site pain.
Overall, latanoprost is a effective and convenient treatment option for patients with open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, and its mechanism of action involves increasing the outflow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway.
From the FDA Drug Label
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Mechanism of Action Latanoprost is a prostanoid selective FP receptor agonist that is believed to reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor. Studies in animals and man suggest that the main mechanism of action is increased uveoscleral outflow.
The mechanism of action (MOA) of Xalatan (latanoprost) is as a prostanoid selective FP receptor agonist, which reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor, primarily through increased uveoscleral outflow 2.
From the Research
Mechanism of Action of Xalatan (Latanoprost)
The mechanism of action (MOA) of Xalatan (latanoprost) is as follows:
- Latanoprost is an ester analogue of prostaglandin F2alpha that reduces intraocular pressure (IOP) by increasing uveoscleral outflow 3, 4, 5.
- It is a selective FP receptor agonist, with a primary mode of action of increased uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor 5.
- The IOP-lowering effect of latanoprost lasts for 20 to 24 hours after a single dose, which allows for a once-daily dosage regimen 3, 4, 6.
Key Features of Latanoprost
Some key features of latanoprost include:
- It is well tolerated and has minimal systemic adverse effects 3, 4, 7.
- The most commonly occurring drug-related ocular events in latanoprost recipients are mild to moderate conjunctival hyperaemia and iris colour change 3, 7.
- Latanoprost has been shown to be effective in reducing IOP in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, and is often used as a first-line treatment option 3, 4, 7.
- It can be used in combination with other glaucoma medications to enhance its IOP-lowering effects 3, 4, 5.