What Is Xalatan?

Xalatan is a prescription eye drop used to reduce pressure in the eye, according to the manufacturer's website. Having high eye pressure can lead to glaucoma, which can damage an eye's optic nerve and eventually lead to blindness, according to the National Eye Institute. Xalatan has been prescribed by doctors since the 1990s to treat and prevent glaucoma.

How it Works

• Xalatan is used to help open the drainage channels of the eyes, which allows any eye pressure to be reduced. When the drainage channels of the eyes are not working properly, excessive fluid can build up and create eye pressure. Such conditions, whether or not they lead to glaucoma, create a risk for blindness.

Using Xalatan

• Xalatan is a small eye drop bottle only available by prescription. One drop per day is used in the lower lid of each eye. Other eye medications may be prescribed by your doctor depending on your condition. However, it is recommended by Xalatan's manufacturer to wait at least five minutes between each eye drop medication used.

Side Effects

• Any medication, whether topical or oral, has a risk of side effects. Xalatan is no exception. The manufacturer states there are several potential side effects associated with using the eye drops. Possible side effects include blurry vision, burning or stinging in the eyes, eye redness, eye itching, feeling like there is something stuck in the eye, and general eye irritation.

Eye Changes

• Xalatan may promote a darkening of the eyes that lead to eye color changes, which are usually permanent, according to the manufacturer's website. The eyelid and eyelashes may also darken in color. Eye color changes are more common among patients who had blue or green eyes or mixed color eyes such as blue-green.

Cost

• As of 2009, uninsured patients could expect to pay about $85 for one bottle of Xalatan, which the manufacturer estimates should last about five weeks. Xalatan is available as a single eye drop bottle or a three-pack, which may reduce the co-payments for insured patients in some cases. Uninsured patients can apply for prescription assistance programs through the Xalatan website.

Applicators

• Xalatan's manufacturer offers a special applicator called Xal-Ease to help open the eye drop bottles and also facilitate using the prescription. As of 2009, the applicator was free of charge and available to Xalatan users by calling 1-866-846-9005.