Quick Answer: The 2 most common brands of Latanoprost sold in the UK are Xalatan and Monopost. While Xalatan must be refrigerated before opening and can only stay 4 weeks at room temperature, Monopost does not require refrigeration.
Latanoprost medicated eye drops are commonly prescribed in the UK to manage glaucoma and ocular hypertension, helping to lower pressure within the eye.
Latanoprost is highly effective but also sensitive to storage conditions, particularly temperature. Correct storage is vital to maintaining its efficacy and ensuring the success of your treatment plan.
So, let’s go through the best practices for handling and storing your Latanoprost
Related article: How to Keep Eye Drops Cool When Travelling.
Does Latanoprost Need to Be Refrigerated?
Yes, Latanoprost needs to be refrigerated. But it depends on the brand and formulation. Some need refrigeration before opening, while others allow room temperature storage once opened.
In the UK, two brands of Latanoprost are available: Xalatan and Monopost.
Xalatan
This commonly prescribed version of Latanoprost must be refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C until opened.
After opening, it can be stored at room temperature (up to 25°C) but should be used within 4 weeks. Always protect it from light.
Related article: Should Eye Drops Be Kept in the Fridge?
Monopost
Monopost is a preservative free formulation of Latanoprost eye drops. It comes in single-dose container used once daily.
It does not need to be refrigerated but should be always kept below 25°C.
Why Storage Matters
Keeping Latanoprost at the right temperature preserves its stability and effectiveness. If exposed to higher temperatures, the active ingredient can break down, reducing its ability to lower eye pressure. Additionally, light exposure can degrade the solution, so it’s important to store your bottle in its original packaging.
Shelf Life of Latanoprost
Unopened Bottles
If stored as directed by their respective manufacturers, unopened bottles or containers of Latanoprost (Xalatan and Monopost) remain effective until the expiry date printed on the packaging.
Opened Bottles
The shelf life after opening varies by product:
- Xalatan: Use within 4 weeks if stored at room temperature.
- Monopost: Single-dose containers that must be disposed of after using.
How to Store Latanoprost When Travelling
Whether you’re off to London City, on holiday in sunny Spain, or travelling further afield, keeping Latanoprost safe and stored properly is a must. Here are some tips:
- Use a Medical-Grade Eye Drops Carrying Case. Brands like 4AllFamily UK offer specialised cooling cases that can maintain a safe temperature range for several days of travel. These cases often come with options for USB power or can be used with simple cold packs, making them versatile for various travel scenarios.
- Keep Latanoprost in the Shade. Always store your eye drops out of direct sunlight. Even brief exposure to sunlight can increase the temperature of your eye drops above the safe threshold of 25°C, risking degradation of the active ingredients.
- Minimize Handling: Try to handle the medication as little as possible. Since Latanoprost is typically administered at night, plan to keep it stored in a cool place at home or in your hotel room while you’re away. If you won’t return to your accommodation until after your usual dosing time, take the cooling case with you but avoid opening it until needed.
And remember, travelling with temperature-sensitive medications like Latanoprost requires to always plan ahead and consider the length of your journey and the storage facilities available at your destination to choose the best cooling solution to keep your eye drops safe and effective!
Related article: Can You Bring Eye Drops on a Plane? Packing Tips for Air Travel!
Can Latanoprost Go Bad?
Yes. If the solution becomes cloudy, changes colour, or develops particles, it should be discarded.
Can You Freeze Latanoprost?
No. Freezing can damage the formulation and render it ineffective. Avoid storing it near the freezer compartment of your fridge.
Can You Use Latanoprost After It Expires?
Using expired Latanoprost isn’t recommended, as its safety and effectiveness can’t be guaranteed.
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