Why is this medication prescribed?

Vyzulta is a prescription medication used to treat open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Open-angle glaucoma is a condition in which the pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) is higher than normal and can lead to optic nerve damage, potentially causing vision loss. Vyzulta helps lower intraocular pressure by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye.

The active ingredients in Vyzulta include latanoprostene bunod, which is a combination of latanoprost and butanediol mononitrate. Latanoprost is a prostaglandin analog, and butanediol mononitrate is a nitric oxide (NO) donating moiety. Together, they work to lower intraocular pressure.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general instructions for using Vyzulta:

• Dosage: The usual recommended dosage is one drop of Vyzulta in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening.
• Administration: Vyzulta is an eye drop solution, and it should be applied to the affected eye(s) using the provided dropper. Make sure to wash your hands before applying the eye drops.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Vyzulta. You should wait at least 15 minutes after using Vyzulta before reinserting your contact lenses.
• Avoid Contamination: Be careful not to touch the dropper tip to any surface, including your eye. This helps prevent contamination.
• Storage: Store Vyzulta at room temperature, and keep it tightly closed when not in use. Do not freeze.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and any potential side effects. If you have any concerns or questions about Vyzulta or its usage, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider or eye care specialist for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

Vyzulta (latanoprostene bunod) is primarily indicated for the treatment of open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It works by reducing intraocular pressure in the eye, which can help manage these conditions and prevent optic nerve damage. It is important to note that the information provided here is based on the FDA-approved indications available up to last update, and you should consult with a healthcare professional or check more recent sources for any updates or additional uses.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Vyzulta, and it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance. Here are some general precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any components of Vyzulta. This includes active or inactive ingredients. Allergic reactions can be serious, and your healthcare provider needs to be aware of any potential risks.
• Medical History: Provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive medical history, especially if you have a history of eye problems, eye surgeries, or other medical conditions. Certain medical conditions may affect your suitability for Vyzulta.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Vyzulta during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not well-established, and your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits and risks.
• Eye Disorders: If you have other eye conditions, such as iritis or uveitis, or a history of herpes simplex keratitis, inform your healthcare provider. Vyzulta should be used with caution in these cases.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Vyzulta and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them. Some preservatives in eye drops can be absorbed by soft contact lenses.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as dietary supplements. This includes other eye medications. There may be potential interactions that your healthcare provider needs to consider.
• Eye Color Changes: Like other prostaglandin analogs, Vyzulta may gradually change the color of the eyes, typically by increasing the brown pigment in the iris. This change is usually permanent and occurs slowly over time.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and the medication’s prescribing information. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while using Vyzulta, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There were no specific dietary instructions provided with Vyzulta. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support overall eye health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Vyzulta:

• Missed Dose: If you forget to use Vyzulta at the scheduled time, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
• Double Dosing: Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one. Applying more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects and is unlikely to provide additional benefits.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Vyzulta (latanoprostene bunod) may cause side effects, and it’s important to be aware of these potential effects. Remember that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience effects that are not listed here. If you’re prescribed Vyzulta, your healthcare provider will monitor you for any adverse reactions. If you notice any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Common side effects of Vyzulta include:

• Eye Irritation: You may experience eye redness, itching, or discomfort after applying Vyzulta.
• Changes in Eyelashes: Vyzulta may cause changes in the color, length, thickness, and number of your eyelashes.
• Darkening of the Eyelid Skin: The skin around the eyes may darken with the use of Vyzulta.
• Eye Pain: Some individuals may experience mild eye pain or a sensation of something in the eye.
• Blurred Vision: Your vision may be temporarily blurred after using Vyzulta.
• Increased Iris Pigmentation: Like other prostaglandin analogs, Vyzulta may lead to an increase in brown pigmentation of the iris. This change is usually permanent.
• Conjunctival Hyperemia: This refers to an increased redness of the white part of the eye (conjunctiva).
• Foreign Body Sensation: Some individuals may feel as though there is a foreign body in the eye.
• Headache: Headaches have been reported as a side effect in some individuals using Vyzulta.
• Eyelid Edema: Swelling of the eyelids may occur.

It’s important to note that serious side effects are rare, but they can occur. These may include severe eye pain, changes in vision, eye swelling or redness, or signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing).

This is not an exhaustive list, and individual responses to medications can vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance on managing potential side effects. If you experience a severe or concerning reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Here are some important considerations regarding the storage and disposal information about Vyzulta:

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Store Vyzulta at room temperature, usually between 36°F to 77°F (2°C to 25°C).
• Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze Vyzulta.
• Protect from Light: Keep the medication container tightly closed and protect it from light.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Vyzulta in a location that is out of reach of children.

Disposal:

• Follow Local Regulations: Dispose of Vyzulta according to local regulations for medication disposal. Do not flush it down the toilet unless instructed to do so.
• Discard Expired Medication: Check the expiration date on the medication, and do not use it if it has expired. Dispose of expired medication properly.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or suspected overdose, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Overdose symptoms may include severe eye irritation or other adverse effects. It’s important to seek medical attention promptly.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Always use Vyzulta as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Follow their instructions regarding dosage, frequency, and any other specific guidance.
• Regular Follow-up: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and check for any potential side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are using Vyzulta. This includes eye care specialists, general practitioners, and pharmacists.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before applying Vyzulta and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them.
• Eye Color Changes: Be aware that Vyzulta, like other prostaglandin analogs, may cause a gradual change in eye color, usually increasing the brown pigment in the iris.
• Allergic Reactions: Be vigilant for signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have specific questions or concerns about using Vyzulta. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health and medical history.