Travatan

Pronounced: TRAV-a-tan
Generic name: Travoprost

Why is Travatan prescribed?

Travatan is an eyedrop that reduces excessive pressure in the eye (often a result of the condition called open-angle glaucoma). Travatan works by promoting drainage of the fluid that fills the eye. It is usually prescribed when you cannot use other remedies or the other drugs have not been effective.

Most important fact about Travatan

Over a period of months or years, Travatan may permanently darken the color of your iris and eyelid. It also may increase the darkness, length, and thickness of your eyelashes. If you need Travatan in only one eye, this may cause a noticeable difference.

How should you take Travatan?

To apply Travatan, gently pull your lower eyelid down to form a pocket then place a drop of the medication in the pouch.

Do not place Travatan in the eyes while wearing contact lenses. Remove the lenses before administering Travatan and wait 15 minutes before reinserting them.

Handle the Travatan solution carefully. Do not allow the tip of the bottle to come in contact with your eye or any surface. This could contaminate the solution and lead to an infection that seriously damages the eye.

If you need to use another eye medication along with Travatan, the drugs should be applied at least 5 minutes apart.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Throw away any unused medication after 6 weeks.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Travatan.

• More common side effects may include:
  Redness in the eye (affects 35 to 50 percent of patients), decreased visual sharpness, eye discomfort, sensation of a foreign body in the eye, eye pain or itching