What are the brand names of prostaglandin (prostaglandin analogs) eyedrops?

Brand Names of Prostaglandin Analog Eye Drops

The prostaglandin analogs available for glaucoma treatment include latanoprost (Xalatan), bimatoprost (Lumigan), travoprost (Travatan), and unoprostone (Rescula) 1, 2, 3, 4.

Available Prostaglandin Analogs

First-Line Agents

• Latanoprost 0.005% - Brand name: Xalatan 3, 4

  • Most widely used prostaglandin analog with extensive documentation 4
  • Reduces IOP by approximately 30% in glaucoma patients 4
  • Dosed once daily in the evening 3

• Bimatoprost 0.03% - Brand name: Lumigan 1, 5

  • Technically classified as a prostamide rather than a pure prostaglandin analog 6
  • FDA-approved for reduction of elevated IOP in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension 1
  • Demonstrates superior IOP-lowering compared to latanoprost, with 2.59% to 5.60% greater reduction over 1-6 months 6
  • Dosed once daily in the evening 1

• Travoprost 0.004% - Brand name: Travatan 2, 6

  • Prostaglandin F2-alpha analog 6
  • FDA-approved for elevated IOP in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension 2
  • Dosed once daily in the evening 2

Less Commonly Used Agent

• Unoprostone 1.2 mg/ml - Brand name: Rescula 3, 4
  • Launched in Japan in 1994, limited experience outside Japanese market 4
  • Less effective than other prostaglandin analogs 7, 8
  • Requires twice-daily dosing, unlike other prostaglandins 4
  • Uncertainty exists whether it should even be classified as a prostaglandin analog 7

Clinical Context

Prostaglandin analogs are recommended as first-line therapy for primary open-angle glaucoma based on their superior IOP-lowering efficacy 7, 9. They work by increasing uveoscleral and trabecular outflow through ciliary muscle relaxation and extracellular matrix remodeling 6.

Key Efficacy Points

• All three major prostaglandin analogs (latanoprost, bimatoprost, travoprost) demonstrate superior IOP reduction compared to timolol 0.5%, brimonidine 0.2%, or dorzolamide 2% monotherapy 6
• Bimatoprost appears most efficacious among the prostaglandin class 6
• Once-daily evening dosing enhances compliance compared to other glaucoma medications 6, 3

Important Caveats

Common Side Effects (All Prostaglandin Analogs)

• Conjunctival hyperemia (most common, 30-50% of patients) 2, 5
• Increased iris pigmentation (likely permanent) 1, 2
• Eyelash changes including increased length, thickness, and number (usually reversible) 1, 2
• Periorbital tissue pigmentation 1, 2

Special Considerations

• Not recommended for pediatric patients under 16 years due to concerns about increased pigmentation with long-term use 1, 2
• Patients should be counseled about permanent iris color changes before initiating therapy 1, 2
• Near absence of systemic side effects makes these agents well-tolerated 6, 3