by When used as directed, Lumigan eye drops help your eyelashes grow longer, darker and thicker. It is also used to treat a condition called idiopathic hypotrichosis (inability to grow or maintain the length of eyelashes).
Lumigan contains a medicine called bimatoprost, which is a type of prostaglandin analogue. It works by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring body chemical (prostaglandin). This helps reduce the pressure within the eyeball by increasing the flow of a fluid called aqueous humour out of the eyeball through channels known as the trabecular meshwork. The outflow of aqueous humour helps to keep the pressure in the eyeball below a level that could damage the optic nerve and cause loss of vision.
Bimatoprost is also used to lower pressure in the eye for people with glaucoma. It is not suitable for everyone with glaucoma and you should only use it if your doctor thinks that it will be beneficial to you. If you are taking any other medicines, including those bought without a prescription and over-the-counter, tell your doctor before you start using Lumigan. This includes medicines used to treat eye conditions such as glaucoma, ocular hypertension and eye infections. Some medicines may interfere with the way that bimatoprost works or increase your risk of side effects.
The most common side effects of bimatoprost are red eyes and eye irritation. Other side effects that are less common include dry eye, itching of the eyelids and darkening of the skin around the eyes. These symptoms usually go away when you stop using the medicine.
You should only use one drop of bimatoprost each day. You should try to do this in the evening as it works best when applied at night. It is important not to touch the inside of your eyes with the drops as this can spread bacteria that could make you sick.
If you wear contact lenses, you should remove them before putting the drops in your eyes. You should then wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in. It is also recommended that you wash your hands before and after using the drops.
You can use bimatoprost while you are pregnant. It is not thought to be harmful to your baby because very little of the medicine gets into your bloodstream. It is safe to use during breastfeeding.
If you have an allergic reaction to bimatoprost, you might experience hives or a rash. You should seek emergency medical care if you have these symptoms.
It is important to use the medicine regularly, and only as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, make sure that you have it at the next scheduled time. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and people who might accidentally swallow it. Use the eye drops by the end of the expiry date on the packaging. You should also write the date that you opened the bottle or pouch on the label. bimatoprost uk
