Increases uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor by relaxing the ciliary muscle, rapidly and potently reducing intraocular pressure
At a glance
Class
Prostaglandin F2-alpha analogue (ophthalmic)
Storage
Refrigerate unopened (2–8°C); once opened, store below 25°C and use within 4 weeks
Dosing
Primary glaucoma (emergency IOP reduction)
Duration: Long-term; 1 drop per affected eye
Safety
Absolute contraindications — do not use
Anterior lens luxation
May worsen lens displacement
Uveitis-associated glaucoma
Prostaglandins can worsen intraocular inflammation
Adverse effects
Common
Miosis
Conjunctival hyperemia
Mild ocular discomfort
Serious
Fibrin formation in anterior chamber
Breakdown of blood-aqueous barrier
Intraocular pressurePupil sizeSigns of uveitis
Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Latanoprost?
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin f2-alpha analogue (ophthalmic) used in pets. Increases uveoscleral outflow of aqueous humor by relaxing the ciliary muscle, rapidly and potently reducing intraocular pressure
›What is Latanoprost used for in pets?
Latanoprost is used in veterinary medicine for: Primary glaucoma (emergency IOP reduction).
›What is the Latanoprost dose for dogs?
For dogs, Latanoprost is typically dosed as follows — Primary glaucoma (emergency IOP reduction): 0 mg/kg Ophthalmic BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What are the side effects of Latanoprost?
Common: Miosis, Conjunctival hyperemia, Mild ocular discomfort. Serious (call your vet immediately): Fibrin formation in anterior chamber, Breakdown of blood-aqueous barrier.
›Does Latanoprost need a prescription?
Yes. Latanoprost is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
›When should Latanoprost not be used?
Do not use Latanoprost if: Anterior lens luxation; Uveitis-associated glaucoma.
References
References
Textbooks & handbooks
- Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
- Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
- Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
- National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
- The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/
Clinical guidelines & consensus
- Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
- American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.
Journals & peer-reviewed studies
- Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
- Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Regulatory & approvals
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/
Databases
- Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
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