Travatan

Travatan is a brand name for travoprost ophthalmic solution, a medication used to lower intraocular pressure in adults with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It is available in preserved formulations containing benzalkonium chloride and, in Travatan Z, in a SofZia-preserved version designed to reduce exposure to traditional preservatives.

Mechanism of action: Travoprost is a prostaglandin F2α analogue. It increases the outflow of aqueous humor, primarily via the uveoscleral pathway, which lowers intraocular pressure.

Administration and dosing: Travatan is typically administered as one drop in the affected eye once daily, usually in the evening. If a dose is missed, resume the usual schedule the next day. Do not use more than one drop per eye per day, as higher frequency does not improve efficacy and may increase side effects.

Indications: Indicated for reducing elevated intraocular pressure in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Warnings and precautions: Hypersensitivity to travoprost or any component of the formulation is a contraindication. Use with caution in active conjunctivitis or ocular infection. Prostaglandin analogues can cause iris pigmentation changes, eyelash growth, and periocular skin hyperpigmentation; they may worsen inflammatory eye conditions such as uveitis. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a clinician, weighing potential benefits against possible risks.

Side effects: Common adverse effects include conjunctival hyperemia, eye irritation, itching, and dry eye. Other, less frequent effects include altered eyelash length/number, blurred vision, and foreign body sensation. Rare events include uveitis or macular edema in susceptible individuals.

Interactions and notes: Concurrent use with other ocular hypotensive agents may yield additive pressure lowering. If worn, remove soft contact lenses before instillation and reinsert after about 15 minutes.