What is bimatoprost, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Bimatoprost is a synthetic (man-made) drug that resembles and mimics the effects of natural chemicals (prostaglandins) produced by the body and is used for reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and increasing the growth of eyelashes.
The exact mechanism of action is unknown. Bimatoprost may reduce IOP by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor from the eye of individuals with narrow angle glaucoma. Excessive aqueous humor may cause optic nerve damage and visual loss. It may increase eyelash growth by increasing the duration of the growing phase of the eyelash.
The FDA approved Lumigan in March 2001 and Latisse in December 2008.
What brand names are available for bimatoprost?
Latisse, Lumigan
Is bimatoprost available as a generic drug?
No
Do I need a prescription for bimatoprost?
Yes
What are the side effects of bimatoprost?
Common side effects include:
-
Itching of the eyes
- Growth of eyelashes
- Eye irritation
- Eye redness
- Eye lash darkening and reversible darkening of skin around the eyes
Bimatoprost may also cause permanent brown pigmentation in the colored part of the eye and hair growth in other areas of the body that it comes in contact with.
What is the dosage for bimatoprost?
The recommended dosage of bimatoprost for reducing IOP is one drop of Lumigan 0.01 or 0.03% in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening. More frequent administration may reduce the IOP-reducing effect. Reduction in IOP starts approximately four hours after administration and maximum effect occurs in approximately 8 to 12 hours.
The recommended regimen for increasing eyelash growth is one drop of Latisse 0.03% applied with an applicator evenly along the skin of the upper eyelid at the base of the eyelashes of each eye every evening.
Which drugs or supplements interact with bimatoprost?
- Bimatoprost should be administered at least five minutes before or after other eye medications.
- Use of bimatoprost for eyelash growth may increase or decrease the effect of prostaglandin-like drugs used for treating elevated IOP.
- Bimatoprost solution contains benzalkonium chloride, which may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Contact lenses should be removed prior to application of bimatoprost. Contact lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes following administration of bimatoprost.
Is bimatoprost safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Use of bimatoprost in
pregnancy has not been adequately evaluated.
It is not known whether bimatoprost is excreted in
human breast milk.
What else should I know about bimatoprost?
What preparations of bimatoprost are available?
Solution (eye drops): 0.01% and 0.03%
How should I keep bimatoprost stored?
S Solutions should be store at 2 C to 25 C (36 F to 77 F).