Drug
Bimatoprost
Pronounced
"bi-MAT-oh-prost"
Side Effects
Eye redness/discomfort/itching/dryness or eyelid redness may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
It is possible for hair growth to happen in other areas of your skin where this medication often touches. Be sure to wipe any extra medication after applying it to the eyelash margins (see also How to Use section).
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
When the eye drop form of this medication is applied directly into the eyes to treat glaucoma, it may slowly (over months to years) cause brown discoloration of the colored portion of the eye (iris). This form of bimatoprost used to improve eyelash appearance could also have this effect. Also, this medication may cause eyelid changes or a darkening of the skin around the base of the eyelashes. After stopping use, eyelid skin darkening should go away after several weeks to months. However other side effects (such as discoloration of the iris) may be permanent. Tell your doctor if any of these side effects occur.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: eye pain, suspected eye infection (discharge, unusual redness, swelling of eyes), rapid vision changes (such as loss of vision).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using bimatoprost, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs (such as latanoprost, travoprost); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as preservatives like benzalkonium chloride), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems (such as discoloration of contact lenses). Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye pressure problems (such as glaucoma), other eye problems (such as macular edema, iritis, uveitis, lens extraction/aphakia).
If you develop a new eye condition (such as infection, eye surgery, eye injury) while using this medication, discuss with your doctor whether you should start using a new bottle.
If you are having your eye pressure tested, tell the testing personnel (such as optometrist or ophthalmologist) that you are using this medication.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.