The Role of Bimatoprost 0.03% in Eyelash Growth: What You Need to Know

05/02/2024

 

What is Bimatoprost Used for?

Bimatoprost belongs to the “prostaglandin analogs” group and is used to lower ocular hypertension (high pressure in the eyes) and treat Glaucoma. As a side effect, patients using Bimatoprost eye drops witnessed hair growth in their eyelashes. The FDA approved this drug in 2008 to treat hypotrichosis (reduced hair growth or hair loss in the eyelashes). Since then, Bimatoprost eye drops have been used to boost the growth of the eyelashes.

How does Bimatoprost Work?

The life cycle of the eyelashes’ hairs ranges from five to twelve months. It is categorized into three phases, which are mentioned below.

• The first phase is known as the anagen phase, which lasts one to two months. How long the hair stays in the anagen phase determines the appearance of the eyelashes.

•  The catagen phase lasts 15 days, and

• The telogen phase lasts four to nine months.

Bimatoprost supports the prostamide-sensitive receptors of the hair follicle in transitioning from the Talogen Phase (or the resting phase ) to the Anagen Phase (or the growth phase). It also helps the hair follicle stay in the Anagen Phase for longer, resulting in denser and elongated eyelashes.

Tips for using Bimatoprost

Since this is a prescription medication, it must be used as prescribed by the specialist. Please read the patient leaflet before using this drug. Below are steps on how to use Bimatoprost for eyelash growth.

• Wash your hands and face with gentle soap and water. Remove any makeup before using this medication.

• Take a drop of Bimatoprost Ophthalmic Solution near the tip of a single-use applicator.

• Bring the applicator close to the upper eyelid and gently apply the solution across the base of the lash line. Start from the inner area and work your way to the outer lash line.

• If there is any excess solution, use a tissue to wipe it off. Even if the medication gets into the eyes, it won’t cause any harm.

• The same steps are to be repeated for the other eye but with a new applicator.

• If you have your contact lens on, remove it and put it on again 20 minutes after you have finished applying the solution.

• Avoid using the solution on your lower eyelid and prevent it from getting into your eyes.

• This medication should be applied once every evening. Just a drop for each of the upper eyelids is sufficient.

• If you miss a dose, do not double the quantity the next time to compensate for the missed one.

• Store the medication at room temperature (between 2 and 25 degrees). Keep it away from children's reach, and discard the remaining medication after expiration.

Side Effects of Bimatoprost

Below are a few common side effects of bimatoprost eye drops. These are common reactions and generally do not require medical attention. They will fade away on their own. However, you must consult a doctor if they persist for a long time and cause discomfort.

• Dry Eyes

• Discoloration of the eye, eyelashes, or eyelids. Once you stop using the medication, the color of the eyelids may return to normal after a few months. However, the color of the iris may not return to normal.

• Itching or irritation of the eyes.

• Redness of the eyes or the eyelids.

• Teary eyes

The above-listed side effects are not the only side effects of this medication. In addition to the common side effects, there may be severe side effects such as those mentioned below:

• Pain in the eyes.

• Discharge from the eyes.

• Blurred or reduced vision.

• Adverse reactions such as hives and swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.

If you witness any of the above-mentioned side effects, you should immediately inform your doctor to prevent further worsening of the condition.

Things to Avoid While Using Bimatoprost

• Avoid using the same applicator for both eyes, as it may cause infection. Instead, use a single-use sterile applicator for each eye. Also, do not use any other brush or cotton swab to apply the medication.

• Adhere to the doctor’s guidelines. Do not use the medication more than the prescribed quantity or apply it multiple times. Using the medication in excess would not enhance the growth of the eyelashes.

• Refrain from touching the tip of the applicator or the medication bottle to prevent contamination.

•  If you have been prescribed any other eye drops, keep 10-minute intervals between the Bimatoprost Ophthalmic solution and the other medication to avoid any interaction. Inform your doctor if you are using Latanoprost or Travoprost.

• Avoid driving and operating heavy tools until your eyes feel comfortable again.

• Do not share this medication with others. It should be used only after the doctor’s approval.

Conclusion

Bimatoprost Ophthalmic Solution increases the size, density, and volume of eyelashes. It may take a couple of months for its effect to be visible. The results are effective only as long as the medication is used regularly. Your eyelashes will turn back to normal once you stop using the medication. Using Bimatoprost may also lead to a permanent change of eye color, eyelids, and eyelashes. Please consult your doctor before you buy Bimatoprost Ophthalmic Solution 0.03, 3 ML to understand how to use this medication effectively. You may buy Bimatoprost online from safemeds4all.com to get a better price and save on prescription medication.