Generic medicine

Bimatoprost: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin (prostamide) analog with two established uses depending on formulation and strength: Reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) (FDA-approved and more.

Forms:Ophthalmic Solution

About Bimatoprost

Indications of Bimatoprost

Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin (prostamide) analog with two established uses depending on formulation and strength:

  • Reduction of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) (FDA-approved, first-line/adjunctive topical therapy): indicated for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, used alone or in patients who have had an insufficient response to another intraocular pressure-lowering medication.
  • Hypotrichosis of the eyelashes (FDA-approved, cosmetic indication, lower-concentration topical formulation applied to the eyelid margin): indicated to increase the growth of eyelashes, including length, thickness, and darkness, in patients with insufficient or thin eyelashes.

Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution is not approved for use in angle-closure, inflammatory, or neovascular glaucoma, and is not a substitute for surgical intervention when the latter is indicated.

Dosage & Administration of Bimatoprost

IndicationFormulationAdult Dose
Open-angle glaucoma / ocular hypertensionOphthalmic solution (0.01% or 0.03%)One drop in the affected eye(s) once daily, in the evening (or as directed on the specific product label, since timing may vary slightly by strength/brand). Do not administer more than once daily; more frequent dosing may reduce the IOP-lowering effect.
Hypotrichosis of eyelashes (eyelash growth)Topical solution 0.03% (eyelid-margin applicator)Apply once daily in the evening to the skin of the upper eyelid margin at the base of the eyelashes using the accompanying sterile applicator, after removing make-up and contact lenses. Do not apply to the lower eyelid.

If a dose is missed, do not double the next dose; simply resume the regular schedule. Excess solution should be blotted away with a tissue to reduce the chance of hair growth in unintended areas of skin contact.

See Administration below for application technique and spacing with other eye medications, and see Precautions and Warnings for guidance on contact lens use.

Side Effects of Bimatoprost

The most common adverse effect of Bimatoprost ophthalmic solution is conjunctival hyperemia (eye redness), reported in a substantial proportion of patients, usually mild.

  • Ocular itching (pruritus) and irritation
  • Growth, thickening, and darkening of eyelashes (expected with the eyelash-growth product; may also occur with the glaucoma-indicated solution)
  • Darkening (increased pigmentation) of the periorbital skin/eyelid
  • Increased brown pigmentation of the iris (see Precautions and Warnings)
  • Dry eye, burning or foreign body sensation, eyelid erythema or edema
  • Blurred vision, photophobia, increased tearing
  • Headache (uncommon)

Most ocular side effects of Bimatoprost are mild to moderate and localized to the eye/periorbital area.

Contraindications of Bimatoprost

Bimatoprost is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Bimatoprost or to any other component of the formulation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bimatoprost

What is Bimatoprost used for?

Bimatoprost is used to lower elevated eye pressure in people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension, and a specific lower-concentration formulation of Bimatoprost is used to grow thicker, longer, and darker eyelashes in people with inadequate eyelash growth.

How do I use Bimatoprost eye drops?

Instill one drop of Bimatoprost into the affected eye(s) once daily, usually in the evening, at the same time each day. Do not use it more than once a day, as this does not improve effectiveness and may increase side effects.

Can Bimatoprost permanently change my eye color?

Yes, Bimatoprost can cause a gradual, likely permanent increase in brown pigmentation of the iris, which may be more noticeable in people with mixed-color eyes. Darkening of the eyelid skin can also occur but may fade after stopping Bimatoprost. Discuss this possibility with your doctor before starting treatment.

Is Bimatoprost safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

There is not enough data to confirm Bimatoprost is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the baby, and a doctor should be consulted before using Bimatoprost while breastfeeding.

What side effects should I watch for with Bimatoprost?

The most common side effect of Bimatoprost is redness of the eye (conjunctival hyperemia). Other effects include itching, irritation, eyelash growth or darkening, and darkening of the eyelid skin. Contact your doctor if you notice significant eye pain, vision changes, or signs of infection.

Can I wear contact lenses while using Bimatoprost?

Remove contact lenses before applying Bimatoprost, since the solution contains a preservative that can be absorbed by soft lenses, and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

DoctorBlogArticles