Does Latisse Affect the Eye Pressure in Glaucoma?

Latisse (Bimatoprost) was originally used to treat glaucoma.  The increase in lash length, density and darkness was noticed as a side effect.

When used as a "cosmeceutical" drug (just to increase the lash length) as instructed on the package insert there is little or no effect in eye pressures.  Latisse should be prescribed and purchased from a physician who is familiar with the possible effects of the medication.  Someone with glaucoma can still probably use Latisse, but you would need to be monitored closely.

Alternatively you can ask your eye doctor if Bimatoprost could be used to treat your glaucoma and then you would get the side benefit of increased lashes while using the medication to treat your glaucoma.

Latisse is the trade name for Bimatoprost 0.03% ophthalmic solution; it is the same medication used to treat glaucoma, marketed under the name Lumigan. To treat glaucoma a single drop is instilled into each affected eye once daily. When used to treat inadequate eyelashes, a drop is placed on a sterile applicator brush which is then evenly applied along the skin of the upper eyelid margin and the base of the eyelashes. Following application, the upper eyelid margin may feel slightly damp but it should not be wet. Any excess solution on other areas of skin should be gently blotted with a tissue.

If the eyelid margin feels wet or there is excess runoff of the solution, too much solution is being applied to the applicator brush. The only way Latisse would have any significant chance of altering (lowering) intraocular pressure would be if so much was applied to the applicator brush that the solution dripped into the eye. When used properly, there is very little risk of any significant Latisse entering the eye.

Latisse gives excellent result when applied properly, and more is not better. When used in excess, Latisse may cause abnormal growth of the lower eyelashes or hair on the nearby cheek skin; and it certainly results in product waste. Using Latisse more sparingly will still provide adequate lash growth and extend the life of the dropper bottle.

Your prescribing physician should discuss the risks and benefits of Latisse, as well as the proper application techniques.

Latisse is product which is essentially the same medication as used in a glaucoma eyedrop. The difference is that Latisse is applied to the eyelid, whereas the eyedrop is instilled directly to the eye.  The patent for eyelash growth was actually obtained by a glaucoma specialist, Dr. Johnstone, who noted that patients taking a similar class of medications, had eyelash growth.  Applying Latisse may not deliver consistent levels of medication to the eye, so one cannot count on this for treating the pressure.  I would speak with your eyeMD if you have high pressure in the eye, especially if you take or are considering Latisse.  First, the high pressure should be evaluated fully to determine whether you have glaucoma.  Additional testing such as visual field examination and optic nerve imaging needs to be performed.  Your eyeMD will be able to advise whether you should be on an ocular anti-hyptertensive or Latisse.