Bimatoprost – Eye Drops for Glaucoma and Lash Growth

When working with Bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analog eye drop that lowers intraocular pressure and can enhance eyelash length. Also called Latisse, it is commonly prescribed for glaucoma, a chronic eye disease that damages the optic nerve and belongs to the class of prostaglandin analogs, medications that mimic natural prostaglandins to increase fluid outflow from the eye.

How Bimatoprost Works and What It Treats

Bimatoprost reduces intraocular pressure by increasing the out‑flow of aqueous humor through the uveoscleral pathway. This mechanism directly tackles the root cause of open‑angle glaucoma, helping to preserve the optic nerve and prevent vision loss. The same prostaglandin effect also stimulates hair follicles on the eyelid margin, which is why the cosmetic version, Latisse, is popular for longer, fuller lashes. Understanding this dual action lets patients and doctors choose the right formulation for eye‑pressure control versus cosmetic use.

For most adults, a single drop in the affected eye once daily at night is the standard regimen. Consistency matters: missing doses can let pressure creep back up, while overdosing may cause unwanted side effects like eye redness or darkening of the iris. Regular eye‑pressure checks every few months ensure the drug is doing its job without overshooting.

Bimatoprost is especially valuable for patients who haven’t responded well to other pressure‑lowering drops such as beta‑blockers or carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Its potency often means fewer pills or additional drops, simplifying treatment plans. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone—people with a history of ocular inflammation or certain corneal conditions should discuss alternatives with their eye doctor.

When used as Latisse, the dosing schedule shifts to once‑daily application to the upper eyelashes, usually after cleaning the lid margin. Users should avoid the medication touching the eye surface, as higher concentrations can trigger irritation. The cosmetic benefit typically appears after eight to twelve weeks, and results can be maintained with ongoing use. Discontinuing Latisse leads to a gradual return to baseline lash length, so expectations should be set early.

Practical tips make Bimatoprost easier to use: tilt the head back, pull down the lower eyelid, and gently squeeze the bottle to place a single drop on the inner corner of the eye. Close the eye for a minute to allow absorption, and use a separate dropper if you need both glaucoma and cosmetic formulations. Store the bottle in a cool, dry place and replace it after 30 days of opening to keep the solution stable.

Whether you’re aiming to protect vision or boost lashes, the articles below dive deeper into dosage nuances, side‑effect management, cost considerations, and real‑world patient experiences with Bimatoprost. Browse the collection to find the specific information you need to make an informed choice.