XALACOM EYE DROPS (Latanoprost & timolol)

Description

Xalacom Eye Drops contain a fixed-dose combination of Latanoprost 0.005% (a prostaglandin F2α analogue) and Timolol 0.5% (a non-selective beta-blocker), working synergistically through two complementary and independent mechanisms to provide superior intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction compared to either agent used alone, making it a highly effective combination therapy for glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Latanoprost reduces IOP by increasing the outflow of aqueous humor primarily through the uveoscleral pathway, while Timolol decreases IOP by suppressing the production of aqueous humor by the ciliary body through beta-adrenergic receptor blockade, together achieving a significantly greater and sustained reduction in intraocular pressure throughout the day and night. It is indicated for the reduction of elevated IOP in patients with open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension who are insufficiently controlled on monotherapy with either a prostaglandin analogue or a beta-blocker alone, offering the convenience of a single once-daily drop in the affected eye(s) in the morning instead of multiple separate medications. Common side effects include conjunctival hyperemia, gradual irreversible darkening of the iris (heterochromia), increased eyelash growth (hypertrichosis), and periorbital skin pigmentation due to Latanoprost, while Timolol may cause systemic beta-blockade effects such as bradycardia, bronchospasm, and hypotension, making it contraindicated in patients with asthma, COPD, sinus bradycardia, and second or third-degree heart block.