Let's learn about eye drops (Netarsudil; Latanoprost) for glaucoma.

Sometimes, the pressure inside our eyes can increase without us realizing it. Just like the air in a tire increases. In medicine, we call this 'Glaucoma' or high pressure in the eye. If this condition is not treated properly, the nerve that gives us vision in our eyes can be damaged and our vision can gradually decrease. So, has your doctor prescribed you a new type of eye drops as a treatment for this condition? Then this article will be very important for you. Let's talk about this simply.

What are these eye drops?

This bottle of eye drops you received actually contains a combination of two medications. They are Netarsudil and Latanoprost . You may also see the name `Rocklatan` on your medicine bottle. These two medications work together to help drain the extra fluid from your eye and reduce the pressure inside your eye. Simply put, this is a very effective treatment for controlling eye pressure.

Things you need to tell your doctor before using the medicine

It is very important for your doctor to know your complete health history before prescribing this medication. So if any of the following apply to you, be sure to tell your doctor about it.

• Eye disorders: If you have recently had an eye injury, infection, or swelling.
• Contact Lenses: If you are a contact lens wearer.
• Allergies: If you are allergic to the ingredients in this medicine, such as Netarsudil and Latanoprost, or to the preservative benzalkonium chloride used to make these eye drops, or to any other medicine, food, or dye.
• Pregnancy: If you are pregnant or expecting a baby soon.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

This medicine is for eye use only, not for oral use. For best results, follow these steps exactly.

1. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap before and after applying the medicine.

2. Prepare: Tilt your head back slightly and look up. Gently pull down your lower eyelid with your index finger. It will form a small pouch.

3. Apply the medicine: Carefully apply one drop of medicine to the dropper tip of the bottle , taking care not to touch your eye, finger, or the bag you have made.

4. Close your eyes: After applying the medicine, close your eyes slowly. Do not blink or rub your eyes . Keep your eyes closed for about a minute.

5. Other medications: If you are using another type of eye drop, leave at least 5 minutes between the two medications.

What if I miss a dose of medicine?

If you miss a dose, don't worry. Skip it and apply one drop at the next time it's due (usually in the evening). Never apply two drops to make up for a missed dose.

What if the medicine is used too much?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

Things to be careful about when using the medicine

There are several things you should pay attention to when using this medicine.

• See your doctor: Visit your doctor at the scheduled time to have your eye pressure checked. This is essential to monitor the progress of your treatment.
• Eye color change: This is something that many people should be aware of. This medication can cause the color of your iris, eyelids, and eyelashes to change over time . Sometimes, eyelashes can become longer, thicker, and darker. These changes can be permanent . If only one eye is treated, there may be a difference in appearance between the two eyes. If you notice anything like this, don't be alarmed and tell your doctor.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying eye drops. Wait about 15 minutes after applying the medication before putting them back in.
• Sensitivity to light: If this medication causes sensitivity to light, wear dark glasses.

What are the possible side effects of the medication?

Like any medication, this one can cause side effects in some people. Let's take a look at what they are and what to do if they occur.

How do you keep this medicine safe?

To maintain the quality of the medicine, it must be stored properly.

• Unopened bottle: Store the bottle that has not yet been used and has not been broken at a temperature between 2 and 8 degrees Celsius (2°C - 8°C), that is, in the normal section of the fridge .
• Opened bottle: Once the bottle is opened, you can store it in two ways.

1. Can be stored at room temperature (below 25°C) for up to 6 weeks .

2. Otherwise, if kept refrigerated (2°C - 8°C), it can be used until the expiration date stated on the bottle.

• Keep away from light and children.

Glaucoma, glaucoma, eye pressure, Netarsudil, Latanoprost, eye drops, eye medication