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Xalatan: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

Xalatan - General Information

Xalatan ophthalmic 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.
It is also known by the brand name of Xalatan manufactured by Pfizer.

 

Pharmacology of Xalatan

Xalatan is an isopropyl ester prodrug which is inactive but which becomes active after hydrolysis to the acid from. Xalatan 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.

 

Xalatan for patients

 

Xalatan Interactions

In vitro studies have shown that precipitation occurs when eye drops containing thimerosal are mixed with latanoprost. If such drugs are used they should be administered with an interval of at least 5 minutes between applications.

 

Xalatan Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to latanoprost, benzalkonium chloride or any other ingredients in this product.

 

Additional information about Xalatan

Xalatan Indication

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

Mechanism Of Action
Xalatan is a prostaglandin F2a analogue. Specifically, Xalatan 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.
Generic Name
Latanoprost
Drug Category
Antihypertensive Agents; Neuroprotective Agents
Drug Type
Small Molecule; Approved
Other Brand Names containing Latanoprost
Xalatan;
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.
Toxicity (Overdose)
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.
Half Life
17 minutes
Dosage Forms of Xalatan
Solution Ophthalmic
Chemical IUPAC Name
propan-2-yl (E)-7-[(1R,2R,3R,5S)-3,5-dihydroxy-2-[(3R)-3-hydroxy-5-phenylpentyl]cyclopentyl]hept-5-enoate
Chemical Formula
C26H40O5
Organisms Affected
Humans and other mammals