Prostaglandin analogs: what they are and how they work

Prostaglandin analogs are a group of medicines that copy natural prostaglandins in your body. They are best known for lowering eye pressure in glaucoma, but some are used to affect the uterus and stomach. Knowing what each drug does helps you use it safely.

Most people meet prostaglandin analogs as eye drops. Drugs like latanoprost, bimatoprost and travoprost lower intraocular pressure by increasing fluid drainage from the eye. They work overnight and often need once daily dosing, usually at bedtime. Common eye side effects include red or itchy eyes, a darkening of the iris or skin around the eye, and longer or thicker eyelashes. Those changes may be permanent, so mention them to your doctor if you care about appearance.

Other prostaglandin analogs are used in obstetrics and gastroenterology. Misoprostol and dinoprostone help soften the cervix and trigger contractions for labor induction or medical procedures. Misoprostol is also used to protect the stomach lining when taking certain pain medicines. These drugs require medical supervision because they can cause strong contractions, heavy bleeding, fever, or chills. Use only under a doctor's guidance and follow hospital protocols for dosing.

Common prostaglandin analogs

Latanoprost, bimatoprost, travoprost — eye drops for glaucoma.

Tafluprost — another glaucoma drop, sometimes preservative-free.

Misoprostol and dinoprostone — used for cervical ripening, labor induction, and stomach protection.

Practical tips for safe use

When using eye drops, tilt your head back, pull down the lower lid, squeeze one drop into the pocket, and close your eye for a minute. Press gently on the inner corner of the eye for thirty seconds to reduce systemic absorption. Wait five minutes if you use other eye drops. Remove contact lenses before applying drops and wait at least fifteen minutes before putting lenses back in.

Store medicines exactly as the label says. Some eye drops can be kept at room temperature after opening for a set time; others may require refrigeration before first use. If you are not sure, ask your pharmacist.

Tell your doctor about other medicines, pregnancy, or if you plan to get pregnant. Do not use uterine prostaglandin analogs at home without clear instructions from a provider. If you develop severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, fever after misoprostol, heavy bleeding, or symptoms that worry you, seek medical help right away.

Most prostaglandin drugs require a prescription. Prices and coverage vary widely between brands and generics, so ask pharmacists about cheaper equivalents like generic latanoprost. Be cautious when buying online: use licensed pharmacies, read patient reviews, and avoid sites that skip prescriptions. Counterfeit eye drops or uterine medicines can be dangerous. Keep receipts and check expiry dates. If a price looks too low for a known drug, ask questions before you buy today.

Want to know more about a specific prostaglandin drug? Look for the brand or generic name on the bottle, check the patient leaflet, and ask your pharmacist or doctor for plain advice. Small changes in dosing or timing can matter, and a quick chat with a clinician will keep you safer.