Avatan 0.004%

Description

Indications

Avatan is a prostaglandin analog that selectively targets FP prostanoid receptors, believed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by enhancing uveoscleral outflow. It is an isopropyl ester prodrug, absorbed through the cornea and converted by esterases into its biologically active free acid.

Pharmacology Travoprost 0.004% ophthalmic solution is prescribed for reducing elevated IOP in individuals with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Dosage & Administration

• The recommended dosage is one drop in the affected eye(s) once daily in the evening.
• Administration more than once daily is not advised, as increased frequency may reduce the IOP-lowering effect of prostaglandin analogs.

Pediatric Use: Not recommended for patients under 16 years due to potential safety concerns related to long-term pigmentation changes.

Geriatric Use: No significant differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger adult patients.

Drug Interactions

• The therapeutic effect may be reduced when used with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Contraindications

• Travoprost eye drops are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to travoprost or any component of this formulation.

Side Effects

• The most commonly reported adverse reaction is ocular hyperemia (30%-50% of patients), with up to 3% discontinuing treatment due to conjunctival hyperemia.
• Other ocular reactions (5%-10% incidence): Decreased visual acuity, eye discomfort, foreign body sensation, pain, pruritus.
• Less common ocular reactions (1%-4% incidence): Blurred vision, blepharitis, cataract, conjunctivitis, corneal staining, dry eye, iris discoloration, keratitis, lid margin crusting, ocular inflammation, photophobia, subconjunctival hemorrhage, tearing.
• Non-ocular adverse reactions (1%-5% incidence): Allergy, angina pectoris, anxiety, arthritis, back pain, bradycardia, bronchitis, chest pain, cold/flu syndrome, depression, dyspepsia, gastrointestinal disorder, headache, hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, hypotension, infection, pain, prostate disorder, sinusitis, urinary incontinence, urinary tract infections.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• No well-controlled studies exist on its use in pregnant women.
• Unknown whether Travoprost is excreted in human milk or affects lactation.

Precautions & Warnings

• Pigmentation: May cause increased pigmentation of the iris, periorbital tissue (eyelid), and eyelashes.
• Eyelash Changes: Can lead to gradual changes such as increased length, thickness, and number of eyelashes.
• Intraocular Inflammation: Use with caution in patients with active intraocular inflammation (e.g., uveitis), as it may worsen inflammation.
• Macular Edema: Risk exists, especially in aphakic patients, pseudophakic patients with torn posterior lens capsules, or those with known macular edema risk factors.
• Use with Contact Lenses: Contact lenses should be removed before instillation and reinserted 15 minutes after application.

Therapeutic Class

• Miotics and glaucoma medications

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Discard the container 4 weeks after opening.