Xalacom: A Combination of Latanoprost and Timolol for Glaucoma Treatment
Glaucoma is a common eye condition that causes damage to the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss if left untreated. Glaucoma is usually associated with high pressure inside the eye, which can be lowered by using eye drops that reduce the production or increase the drainage of the fluid that fills the eye.
Xalacom is a brand name of an eye drop that contains two active ingredients: latanoprost and timolol. Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analogue that mimics the action of natural prostaglandins, which are chemicals that regulate various functions in the body. In the eye, latanoprost increases the drainage of the fluid through a pathway called the uveoscleral outflow. Timolol is a beta-blocker that blocks the receptors for adrenaline and noradrenaline, which are hormones that stimulate various organs in the body. In the eye, timolol reduces the production of the fluid by the ciliary body, which is a part of the eye that controls the lens.
By combining latanoprost and timolol, Xalacom achieves a greater reduction in eye pressure than either ingredient alone. Xalacom is used to treat glaucoma or ocular hypertension (high eye pressure) when other eye drops are not effective enough. Xalacom is applied once a day, preferably in the evening, to the affected eye(s).
How to use Xalacom
Before using Xalacom, you should read the package leaflet carefully and follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist. Here are some general guidelines on how to use Xalacom:
- Wash your hands before and after using the eye drops.
- If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before applying Xalacom. You can put them back in 15 minutes after using the eye drops.
- Tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a pocket.
- Squeeze one drop into the pocket and close your eye gently.
- Press your finger against the corner of your eye near your nose for one minute. This helps to prevent the eye drop from draining into your nose and throat, which may cause unwanted side effects.
- Repeat these steps for your other eye if needed.
- Do not touch the tip of the bottle with your eye or anything else to avoid contamination.
- Replace the cap on the bottle after each use.
- Use only one drop per eye per day. Do not use more or less than prescribed.
- Do not stop using Xalacom without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may cause your eye pressure to rise again.
Possible side effects of Xalacom
Like all medicines, Xalacom may cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. Some of the most common side effects of Xalacom are:
- Irritation, burning, stinging, itching or redness of the eye
- Blurred vision or changes in vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Dryness or watering of the eye
- Inflammation or infection of the eye or eyelid
- Changes in eyelash growth, thickness or colour
- Changes in iris colour (the coloured part of the eye)
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Some of these side effects may be temporary and mild, but others may be serious and require medical attention. You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Slow or irregular heartbeat
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Allergic reaction (such as rash, swelling, itching or difficulty breathing)
- Sudden vision loss or pain in the eye
This is not a complete list of side effects. For more information, please refer to the package leaflet or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Xalacom price comparison in different countries
The price of Xalacom may vary depending on where you buy it and whether you have a prescription or not. The table below shows the average price of Xalacom in different countries, based on online sources. The prices are in US dollars and are for one bottle of 2.5 ml of Xalacom eye drops.
| Country | Price | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $50.00 | GoodRx |
| Canada | $40.00 | Canada Drugs Direct |
| UK | $30.00 | Pharmacy2U |
| Australia | $25.00 | Chemist Warehouse |
| India | $15.00 | MedPlusMart |
Top 5 global brands of latanoprost and timolol eye drops
Latanoprost and timolol eye drops are available under different brand names in different countries. Some of the most popular and widely used brands are:
- Xalacom (Pfizer)
- Xalatan/Timoptic (Pfizer/Merck)
- Ganfort (Allergan)
- Duotrav (Novartis)
- Lumigan/Combigan (Allergan)
These brands may have different formulations, strengths, preservatives or prices. You should always use the brand that your doctor has prescribed for you and follow the instructions carefully.
Conclusion
Xalacom is an effective and convenient eye drop that combines latanoprost and timolol to lower the pressure in the eye and prevent glaucoma damage. Xalacom is used once a day and has a low risk of side effects. However, you should always consult your doctor before using Xalacom and report any adverse reactions or changes in your vision. You should also compare the prices of Xalacom in different countries and choose the best option for you.
If you have any questions or comments about Xalacom, please feel free to contact us or leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!