It needs to be administered twice a day. The same restrictions apply to this drug as to topical beta blockers and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Among the rare, but serious, side effects that can occur with long-term use of oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitors are a dangerous form of anemia and kidney problems, including the development of kidney stones. They can also produce a toxic reaction when taken with large doses of aspirin. Women who are pregnant should not take these drugs.
Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that help keep blood vessels dilated.
Latanoprost is administered in eye drops that only need to be taken once a day. One study reported that it reduced pressure more significantly than timolol did. This drug does not slow the heart rate down and also appears to be safe for people with asthma. Side effects include itching, redness, and burning during administration. Muscle and joint pain may also occur.