indication

For the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

pharmacology

Latanoprost is an isopropyl ester prodrug which is inactive but which becomes active after hydrolysis to the acid from. Latanoprost opthalmic solution is a topical medication used for controlling the progression of glaucoma or ocular hypertension, by reducing intraocular pressure. It is a prostaglandin analogue that works by increasing the outflow of aqueous fluid from the eyes.

mechanism of action

Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2a analogue. Specifically, 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. Elevated IOP represents a major risk factor for glaucomatous field loss. The higher the level of IOP, the greater the likelihood of optic nerve damage and visual field loss.

toxicity

Symptoms of overdose include bloodshot eyes and eye irritation.

biotransformation

Primarily hepatic (none except hydrolysis in the eye). Latanoprost is an isopropyl ester prodrug. It is hydrolyzed by esterases in the cornea to latanoprost acid, which is biologically active. The portion of the latanoprost acid that reaches the systemic circulation is metabolized primarily by the liver to 1,2-dinor and 1,2,3,4-tetranor metabolites by fatty acid beta-oxidation.

absorption

Latanoprost is well absorbed through the cornea where the isopropyl ester prodrug is hydrolyzed to the acid form. Peak concentration is reached 2 hrs after topical administration.

half life

17 minutes