Prostaglandin Analogs for Glaucoma: Side Effects and Contraindications

Introduction to Prostaglandin Analogs

• The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends prostaglandin analogs (latanoprost, bimatoprost, travoprost, tafluprost) as first-line therapy for open-angle glaucoma due to superior IOP-lowering efficacy and once-daily dosing, but they must be avoided or used with extreme caution in patients with active uveitis, macular edema, and history of herpetic keratitis 1, 2

Pregnancy and Prostaglandin Analogs

• The FDA categorizes latanoprost as Category C in pregnancy, indicating that it should be used with caution 1

Conditions Where Prostaglandin Analogs Are Preferred

• Prostaglandin analogs are preferred over beta-blockers in patients with asthma and COPD due to their safer profile 1