Latisse

Latisse is the only FDA-approved solution for treating eyelash hypotrichosis, which is insufficient or sparse lashes. The drug requires at least a couple months of regular use to achieve the desired effect. Upon discontinuation, the eyelashes revert to their former state. Use in subjects under 18 years and those pregnant or breastfeeding is not recommended.

What is Latisse, and How Does it Work?

Latisse, a brand name for bimatoprost, belongs to the class of drugs known as prostaglandin analogues. Bimatoprost is a topical drug (ophthalmic solution) that is applied to the base of the eyelashes and induces enhanced growth of the lashes. Latisse makes the growing lashes thicker, longer and darker. Typically, it takes about two months of regular and appropriate use of bimatoprost for these eyelash changes to occur.

The effects of Latisse are temporary, and discontinuation of use will cause a gradual return to the original appearance of the eyelashes.

The development of Latisse was inspired by the effects of Lumigan, as individuals taking the drug for glaucoma were found to have fuller, darker eyelashes. Latisse and Lumigan contain a similar active ingredient of bimatoprost. Latisse is the only agent approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for treating inadequate lashes. Many over-the-counter solutions promise effects similar to Latisse’s, but they contain isopropyl cloprostenate, whose safety and efficacy are unknown.

Uses of Latisse (Bimatoprost)

The FDA approves Latisse (Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) for treating hypotrichosis of the eyelashes, which is the inadequate growth of the lashes. The medicine makes the eyelashes more noticeable by increasing their length, thickness and darkness. Individuals with sparse lashes due to genetics and those with eyelash loss due to stress can use the drug to grow more hair around the eyes. Bimatoprost mimics a natural chemical in the body, prostaglandin, to stimulate hair growth.

How to use Latisse: Form, Dosage and Administration

Latisse comes as a clear solution containing 0.03% bimatoprost and several inactive ingredients, including benzalkonium chloride 0.05 mg/ml, citric acid monohydrate, purified water and sodium phosphate dibasic heptahydrate.

The recommended dosage of Latisse is one drop applied to the base of the upper eyelashes. A disposable applicator available in the drug package is used to ensure the correct amount of the drug is delivered to the upper eyelid margin of each eye.

Latisse ophthalmic solution is applied once per day. Using the medicine more frequently than recommended (more than once in 24 hours) does not make the eyelashes grow faster. Stick to the prescribed dose and frequency.

Factors such as body weight, comorbid medical conditions and concomitant use of other medications might affect how much bimatoprost solution a person should apply. If the doctor recommends a different dose from the one stated above (one drop per eyelid margin, once daily), follow the provider’s instructions and before initiating any change, consult the doctor.

When applying Latisse to the eyelash line:

• Thoroughly wash the face to ensure it is free of dirt or makeup
• Remove the contact lenses if wearing any (They can be reinserted at least 15 minutes after applying the solution)
• Pick one sterile applicator from the provided tray. Holding the applicator horizontally, place a drop of Latisse solution nearest the tip.
• Now draw the applicator across the skin of the upper eyelid margin and apply the Latisse solution evenly at the base of the eyelash, moving from the inner to the outer parts of the lash line. Do not use the Latisse on the lower eyelashes.
• Wipe off excess medicine extending beyond the eyelid margin and discard the applicator. Although the medication is for external use only, it does not cause harm when it enters the eye, eliminating the need to rinse if the solution contacts the eye.
• Use a new applicator to apply bimatoprost solution to the other eye, following the same procedure.

Use the medicine regularly to obtain optimum results. Typically, bimatoprost eye solution should be applied before bed. In case of a missed dose, do not compensate by doubling the next dose. Instead, resume the usual dosing schedule. For further clarification on what to do after missing a dose, consult the healthcare provider.

This medication should be stored at a temperature of 36 - 770 F and kept out of children’s reach.

Possible Side Effects

Latisse might cause unwanted effects even when used at the recommended doses. These side effects usually vary in severity and can be reversible or irreversible. While not everyone experiences these undesired effects, it is necessary to talk to the provider about them and determine the risk-benefit ratio.

Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. Approximately 1% of people taking Latisse have reported issues like:

• Dryness, burning sensation and reddening of the eye
• Temporary visual blurring
• Darkening of the upper eyelid skin
• Eye irritation

If these side effects persist or worsen, contact the doctor for appropriate management.

Some side effects of Latisse are rare but can lead to severe complications if they occur and go untreated. Thus, contact the doctor immediately if the following occurs when taking the drug:

• Pain in the eye
• Signs of eye or eyelid infection, including swelling and redness
• Vision changes

This list of side effects is not exhaustive, as some people might experience effects other than those stated. For instance, permanent pigmentation of the iris can occur, although extremely rare. Notify the doctor of any symptom that emerges when using Latisse.

Precautions When Applying Latisse

Before using bimatoprost eye solution, talk to your doctor about any allergies, current medications and other important medical facts such as pregnancy or lactation.

Below are the precautions to observe when using the medicine:

• Latisse is a prescription drug. No one except the person to whom it was prescribed should use the medication.
• Only use the sterile disposable applicators that come with the drug, and do not let the applicator tip contact the finger or other surfaces to prevent contamination. Never reuse an applicator, as this would contaminate the solution.
• The safety and efficacy of the drug in children are unknown and, therefore, should not be used by those below 18 years.
• Increased hair growth can occur outside the treatment areas if the surfaces are regularly exposed to the solution. Only use the applicator to apply the medication and blot any excess medicine.
• The effect of Latisse on pregnancy and lactation remains unclear. Discuss with the doctor to determine whether to continue or stop the drug when pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Contact the ophthalmologist immediately if a new eye condition, including vision changes and eye infection, develops when using the drug.
• Expired or no longer needed medications should not be disposed of in household garbage or wastewater. Ask the pharmacist how to dispose of the drug.

Potential Drug Interactions

Bimatoprost eye solution can interact with other prostaglandin analogs used to treat glaucoma, such as:

• latanoprost
• travoprost
• Lumigan

Keeping a list of all your current medications and presenting it to the doctor helps to prevent adverse drug interactions.

Latisse is contraindicated in those allergic to bimatoprost.

Alternatives to Latisse

Currently, only Latisse (0.03% bimatoprost eye solution) is approved for treating inadequate eyelashes. The safety and efficacy of over-the-counter medicines promising similar effects are unknown; therefore, they should not be used as alternatives.

How to Order Latisse Online

Kiwi Drug offers affordable access to all medications to people on all continents. Subject to industry regulations, Kiwi uses professional pharmacists to ensure the clients receive the best services and maintain optimum quality of life. You need a doctor’s prescription when purchasing Latisse. That said, Kiwi’s online doctor may issue you one via the online doctor service from Kiwi, subject to a review of your medical profile. Otherwise, purchasing from Kiwi Drug is straightforward and quick, involving:

• Signing up and adding the product to the cart
• Clicking on Checkout Now
• Answering the questions presented on the next page
• Entering payment details and waiting for your order to arrive.