Eye CareBimatoprost (Generic)
Generic drugs, marketed without brand names, contain the exact same active ingredients used in their brand-name counterparts, but cost significantly less. The drugs are required to meet US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards for safety, purity and effectiveness.
Bimatoprost
By increasing the quantity of fluid that drains out of the eye, the generic version of bimatoprost is able to lower the pressure that is present in the eye. Bimatoprost ophthalmic (medication for the eyes) is prescribed to patients who have been diagnosed with a certain kind of glaucoma or another condition that results in increased intraocular pressure.
Bimatoprost is a synthetic prostaglandin analog primarily used in the field of ophthalmology to treat various eye conditions. It is most commonly prescribed for the management of glaucoma and ocular hypertension, conditions characterized by increased intraocular pressure (IOP) that can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss if left untreated. Additionally, bimatoprost has gained popularity for its cosmetic application in enhancing eyelash growth. This article delves into the pharmacology, therapeutic uses, mechanisms of action, side effects, and other relevant aspects of bimatoprost.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Bimatoprost exerts its therapeutic effects by binding to prostaglandin receptors in the eye, particularly the FP (prostaglandin F) receptors. This binding leads to several physiological changes:
Increased Uveoscleral Outflow: Bimatoprost enhances the drainage of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway, a secondary route for fluid outflow from the eye. This helps to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by facilitating the removal of excess fluid.
Reduction in Aqueous Humor Production: Although the primary mechanism is through increased outflow, bimatoprost may also have a minor effect on reducing the production of aqueous humor, further contributing to IOP reduction.
Eyelash Growth: In its cosmetic application, bimatoprost is believed to prolong the anagen (growth) phase of the eyelash hair cycle, resulting in longer, thicker, and darker lashes. The exact mechanism is not fully understood but is thought to involve the stimulation of hair follicles and increased melanogenesis (pigment production).
Therapeutic Uses
1. Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions characterized by damage to the optic nerve, often associated with elevated intraocular pressure. Ocular hypertension refers to elevated IOP without optic nerve damage. Both conditions are risk factors for glaucoma and require treatment to prevent vision loss.
Bimatoprost is a first-line treatment for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It is effective in reducing IOP by approximately 25-30%, which is comparable to or better than other prostaglandin analogs. The drug is typically administered as an ophthalmic solution (eye drops) once daily, usually in the evening.
2. Hypotrichosis of the Eyelashes
Bimatoprost is also approved for the treatment of hypotrichosis, a condition characterized by inadequate or insufficient eyelash growth. The drug is marketed under the brand name Latisse for this purpose. When applied to the base of the upper eyelashes, bimatoprost promotes the growth of longer, thicker, and darker lashes, enhancing the overall appearance of the eyes.
Dosage and Administration
Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Formulation: Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution (0.01% or 0.03%).
Dosage: One drop in the affected eye(s) once daily, usually in the evening.
Administration: Patients should be instructed on proper eye drop administration to ensure optimal efficacy and minimize systemic absorption.
Hypotrichosis of the Eyelashes
Formulation: Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution (0.03%) marketed as Latisse.
Dosage: One drop applied to the base of the upper eyelashes using a sterile applicator once daily.
Administration: Patients should avoid applying the solution to the lower eyelid to prevent unwanted hair growth in that area.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption
Bimatoprost is well-absorbed through the cornea after topical administration. Systemic absorption is minimal, but detectable levels of the drug and its metabolites can be found in the plasma.
Distribution
Bimatoprost is distributed throughout the ocular tissues, with the highest concentrations found in the cornea, conjunctiva, and aqueous humor. The drug has a high affinity for the FP receptors in the ciliary muscle and trabecular meshwork.
Metabolism
Bimatoprost undergoes hydrolysis in the cornea to form its active metabolite, bimatoprost acid. Further metabolism occurs in the liver, where the drug is oxidized and conjugated to form inactive metabolites.
Excretion
The metabolites of bimatoprost are primarily excreted in the urine, with a small amount eliminated in the feces. The elimination half-life of bimatoprost is approximately 45 minutes.
Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Ocular Side Effects
Common: Conjunctival hyperemia (redness), itching, burning, and irritation at the application site.
Less Common: Dry eye, eye pain, photophobia, and changes in eyelash growth (increased length, thickness, and pigmentation).
Rare: Iris pigmentation changes (darkening of the iris), periorbital skin pigmentation, and eyelid skin darkening.
Systemic Side Effects
Rare: Headache, dizziness, and upper respiratory tract infections.
Very Rare: Hypotension, bradycardia, and exacerbation of asthma.
Contraindications and Precautions
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to bimatoprost or any component of the formulation.
Active intraocular inflammation (e.g., uveitis).
Precautions
Contact Lens Wearers: Patients should remove contact lenses before applying bimatoprost and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Bimatoprost should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the safety of the drug in these populations has not been fully established.
Pediatric Use: The safety and efficacy of bimatoprost in children have not been well studied.
Drug Interactions
Bimatoprost has a low potential for drug interactions due to its localized action and minimal systemic absorption. However, concomitant use with other topical ophthalmic agents may increase the risk of ocular side effects. Patients should be advised to wait at least 5 minutes between the administration of different eye drops to minimize the risk of interactions.
Special Populations
Elderly Patients
No dosage adjustment is necessary in elderly patients, as age-related changes in pharmacokinetics do not significantly affect the efficacy or safety of bimatoprost.
Patients with Hepatic or Renal Impairment
Bimatoprost is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys. However, due to its localized action and minimal systemic absorption, dosage adjustments are generally not required in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
Overdose
There is limited information on bimatoprost overdose. In the event of accidental ingestion or excessive topical application, supportive and symptomatic treatment should be provided. Systemic effects are unlikely due to the drug's low systemic absorption.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) and protected from light.
Handling: Patients should be instructed to avoid contaminating the tip of the dropper bottle to prevent bacterial contamination and subsequent eye infections.
Conclusion
Bimatoprost is a valuable therapeutic agent in the management of glaucoma and ocular hypertension, offering effective intraocular pressure reduction with once-daily dosing. Its additional application in enhancing eyelash growth has made it a popular choice for cosmetic purposes. While generally well-tolerated, patients should be monitored for potential side effects, particularly ocular irritation and pigmentation changes. As with any medication, proper patient education and adherence to prescribed regimens are essential for achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Future Directions
Ongoing research continues to explore the potential applications of bimatoprost and other prostaglandin analogs in ophthalmology and beyond. Future studies may investigate the drug's efficacy in other forms of glaucoma, its potential neuroprotective effects on the optic nerve, and its role in other dermatological conditions. Additionally, advancements in drug delivery systems may lead to improved formulations with enhanced efficacy and reduced side effects, further expanding the therapeutic potential of bimatoprost.
Bimatoprost eye drops
What kind of medication is this?
By increasing the quantity of fluid that drains out of the eye, BIMATOPROST is able to lower the pressure that is present in the eye. Bimatoprost ophthalmic (medication for the eyes) is prescribed to patients who have been diagnosed with a certain kind of glaucoma or another condition that results in increased intraocular pressure. The ocular formulation of bimatoprost may also be used for uses that are not included in this drug guide.
Before I start using this medication, what should I discuss with my primary care physician?
If you have ever had an allergic reaction to bimatoprost, you should not take this medicine.
Before beginning treatment with bimatoprost, it is important to discuss with your physician any known medication allergies, as well as any ocular conditions, such as inflammation or infection.
Bimatoprost ophthalmic may cause a progressive change in the color of your eyes or eyelids and lashes, as well as increased growth or thickness of your eyelashes. Moreover, this medication may cause a change in the color of your eyelashes. These color changes, which are often an increase in dark pigment, take place gradually, and it is possible that you will not see them for a number of months or even years. Changes in color could be lasting even after your therapy is over, and they might just happen in the eye that's getting treated. This might lead to a noticeable variation in the color of one eye compared to the other, particularly in the eyelash area.
FDA pregnancy category C. There is insufficient evidence to determine whether or not bimatoprost ophthalmic poses a threat to an unborn child. When you are taking this medicine, you should inform your doctor if you are pregnant or if you intend to become pregnant in the near future.
It is unknown whether bimatoprost ophthalmic goes into breast milk or whether it might cause damage to a baby who is being breastfed. If you are a breastfeeding mother and intend to use this medicine, you must first discuss it with your physician.
What is the correct way to take this medication?
It is not safe to use this medicine if you are also going to be wearing contact lenses. A preservative that has the potential to discolor soft contact lenses may be included in bimatoprost ophthalmic. After applying bimatoprost to your eyes, you must refrain from inserting your contact lenses for at least 15 minutes.
Bimatoprost ophthalmic may cause a progressive change in the color of your eyes or eyelids and lashes, as well as increased growth or thickness of your eyelashes. Moreover, this medication may cause a change in the color of your eyelashes. These color changes, which are often an increase in dark pigment, take place gradually, and it is possible that you will not see them for a number of months or even years. Changes in color could be lasting even after your therapy is over, and they might just happen in the eye that's getting treated. This might lead to a noticeable variation in the color of one eye compared to the other, particularly in the eyelash area.
It is important to ensure that the pointy end of the dropper does not come into contact with any surface, particularly your hands or eyes. If the dropper becomes contaminated, it has the potential to induce an infection in your eye, which, if left untreated, might result in permanent vision loss or other significant eye damage.
After applying this medication to your eyes, you will need to wait at least 5 minutes before applying any other eye drops that your physician has recommended for you.
What other substances could react with this medication?
There is a very little probability that other medications that you provide intravenously or orally will have an effect on the bimatoprost that is used in the eyes. Yet, many different medications might have an effect on one another. Inform your doctor about any and all medications you are currently taking. This covers items purchased with a prescription, those bought over the counter, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Do not begin taking a new medicine before consulting with your primary care physician.
Dosage and Use Information for Bimatoprost Ophthalmic
The recommended dose for adults with intraocular hypertension is to place one drop into each of the afflicted eye(s) once a day, preferably in the evening.
The typical dose for adults with open-angle glaucoma is to place one drop into each of the afflicted eye(s) once per day, in the evening.
Standard Pediatric Dosage for Intraocular Hypertension: For patients 16 years of age and older, place one drop of medication into each of the afflicted eye(s) once day, preferably in the evening.
Standard Pediatric Dosage for Open-Angle Glaucoma: For patients aged 16 and older, the following dosage is recommended:
Put one drop into each of the eye(s) that are afflicted once daily, in the evening.
What can I expect if I forget to take a dose?
If you forget to take a dosage, take it as soon as you realize it. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dosage, you should skip the dose that you missed. It is not safe to take more medication in an attempt to make up for a missed dosage.
What happens if I overdose?
Immediately seek out the assistance of a qualified medical professional or dial the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. The signs of an overdose may include more severe manifestations of some of the adverse effects described in this drug reference.
What side effects should I be on the lookout for when using this medication?
Follow the instructions given by your physician to the letter. Do not use in amounts that are bigger or lower than indicated, nor for a duration that is longer than suggested. The ocular formulation of bimatoprost is typically administered as one drop into each of the afflicted eye once daily, in the evening. Be sure to take your medication exactly as directed on the label.
It is not safe to use this medicine if you are also going to be wearing contact lenses. A preservative that has the potential to discolor soft contact lenses may be included in bimatoprost ophthalmic. After applying bimatoprost to your eyes, you must refrain from inserting your contact lenses for at least 15 minutes.
Always remember to wash your hands before administering any eye medicine.
To administer the eye drops, tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid to form a little pocket. Next, place the dropper inside the pocket. Keep the tip of the dropper pointed away from the eye as you hold it. Close your eye once you've extracted a drop from the dropper and look away from it in the opposite direction.
You should only use the amount of drops that were recommended by your healthcare provider.
To prevent the liquid from flowing into your tear duct, place the tip of your finger in the inner corner of your eye and gently push there for about a minute. This will be near your nose.
Moreover, wait at least five minutes before applying any additional eye drops that your doctor has advised for you to use.
It is important to ensure that the pointy end of the dropper does not come into contact with any surface, particularly your hands or eyes. If the dropper becomes contaminated, it has the potential to induce an infection in your eye, which, if left untreated, might result in permanent vision loss or other significant eye damage.
Eye drops should not be used if the liquid has changed color or if there are particles present in the bottle. Make a fresh prescription by contacting your primary care physician.
For the whole course of your treatment with bimatoprost ophthalmic, it is imperative that you notify your eye doctor immediately in the event that you sustain an eye injury, acquire an eye infection, or want to have eye surgery.
Keep this medication away from moisture and heat in a cool, dry place like the refrigerator or at room temperature. Do not get frozen. While not in use, ensure that the cap is securely fastened on the bottle.
What potential negative reactions may I have to this medication?
If you notice any of the following indications of an allergic reaction, you should seek immediate medical attention: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or neck.
If you experience any serious side effects while using bimatoprost ophthalmic, including but not limited to: redness, swelling, itching, or pain in or around your eye; oozing or discharge from your eye; increased sensitivity to light; vision changes, you should immediately stop using the medication and contact your doctor.
After taking the eye drops, you may have less significant side effects such as minor eye irritation, disorientation, the sensation that something is stuck in your eye, dry or watery eyes, or stinging or burning sensations in the eyes.
This list of potential adverse effects is not exhaustive; additional symptoms may also surface. Make an appointment with your primary care physician to discuss any adverse effects. You can call the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report any adverse effects.
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