My Parents Have Macular Degeneration. If I Use Latisse for Lengthening my Eyelashes, Am I Increasing my Risk of Getting AMD?

Question

Both of my parents have macular degeneration (wet and dry). If I use Latisse, will I be increasing my risk of getting AMD?

Adam Koenigsberg, MD (retired) · Answer

The ingredient in Latisse that makes lashes grow is the same as one of the glaucoma medications, the class of which is known as "prostaglandin analogues." I know of no link between use of prostaglandin analogues and macular degeneration. If such a link existed, we would be required to warn many of our glaucoma patients of said risk.

Leslie M. Sims, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Latisse should not have any effect on you developing macular degeneration. However, you should get a complete eye examination to include intraocular pressure and a dilated fundus exam. Latisse lengthens, thickens and darkens lashes and is not contraindicated if one has macular degeneration or cataracts. I hope this reply helps.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Though there is not an established link between using Latisse and increasing the risk for macular degeneration, I would advise against using. It will be best to just not tempt fate.

My Parents Have Macular Degeneration. If I Use Latisse for Lengthening my Eyelashes, Am I Increasing my Risk of Getting AMD?

Answers (3)