Unoprostone is a prescription eye drop used to treat certain types of glaucoma, a condition which can cause increased pressure inside the eye. Unoprostone works by decreasing the amount of fluid produced in the eye, thus reducing pressure and helping to prevent vision loss. It is usually used in combination with other medications such as beta-blockers and carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. Common side effects of Unoprostone may include stinging, irritation, redness, and blurred vision.
Unoprostone is a medication no longer commercially available in the US, but it's important to understand its history and uses. Here's a breakdown of key points:
- Type of Drug: Prostaglandin analogue
- Previous Brand Name: Rescula (discontinued in 2015)
- Use: Lowers intraocular pressure (IOP) in the eye for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
How it Worked: Unoprostone increased the outflow of aqueous humor, the fluid inside the eye, thereby reducing pressure.
Important Note: Unoprostone was withdrawn from the US market due to safety concerns.
Here's some additional information about Unoprostone:
- Mechanism: The exact way unoprostone worked is debated. It might have increased outflow through different pathways compared to other prostaglandin analogues.
- Alternatives: Several other medications can lower IOP, including other prostaglandin analogues, beta-blockers, and alpha-adrenergic agonists.