Careprost: Uses, dosage, side effects, warnings & patient reviews

What is Careprost (Bimatoprost)?

Careprost is a prescription eye drop solution whose active ingredient is bimatoprost, a synthetic prostaglandin analog. It has two distinct uses: a medical treatment for certain eye conditions and a cosmetic application to enhance eyelash growth.

As a medication, it is FDA-approved to reduce elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. By increasing the outflow of aqueous humor from the eye, it helps prevent optic nerve damage.

Its cosmetic use stems from a well-documented side effect. Bimatoprost can stimulate the growth phase of eyelash hair follicles, leading to longer, thicker, and darker lashes. Careprost is a generic version of the branded products Lumigan (for glaucoma) and Latisse (for eyelash growth). For more on the safety and efficacy of generic medications, see our resource on generic medicines.

How to Use Careprost Eye Drops

Correct application is critical for effectiveness and to minimize side effects. The method differs slightly based on whether you are using it for glaucoma or eyelash enhancement.

For Glaucoma Treatment

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to form a pouch.
3. Hold the dropper tip close to the eye without touching it. Instill one drop into the pouch.
4. Close your eye gently and apply light pressure to the inner corner (near the nose) for 1-2 minutes. This minimizes systemic absorption.
5. Do not blink or rinse the eye immediately after.

For Eyelash Growth

1. Ensure your face is clean, makeup is removed, and contact lenses are out.
2. Using the sterile applicator provided, place one drop of solution on it.
3. Carefully apply the solution in a thin line along the skin of the upper eyelid at the base of the eyelashes. Apply only to the upper lash line.
4. Do not apply to the lower lash line. Blot any excess solution that gets into the eye or onto the cheek.
5. Dispose of the applicator after a single use. Reusing it can cause eye infections.

For both uses, replace the bottle cap tightly immediately after use. Do not let the tip touch any surface to avoid contamination. Understanding the instructions for any medication is key. Learn more about how to read your medicine’s information.

Side Effects of Careprost

Like all medications, Careprost can cause side effects. These range from common, temporary reactions to more serious, potentially permanent changes. It is helpful to understand the spectrum of possible side effects.

What is Careprost Used For?

Careprost (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) has distinct medical and cosmetic applications, both rooted in the pharmacological action of the prostaglandin analog.

Medical Use: Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension

The primary FDA-approved medical use is to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. High IOP is a major risk factor for glaucoma, which can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss. Bimatoprost works by increasing the outflow of the eye’s fluid (aqueous humor) through the uveoscleral pathway.

Cosmetic Use: Eyelash Enhancement

The cosmetic use of Careprost for eyelashes is its most popular application. Bimatoprost extends the anagen (growth) phase of the eyelash hair cycle and increases the number of hairs in the growth phase. This results in:

• Longer eyelashes
• Thicker eyelashes (increased hair diameter)
• Darker eyelashes (increased melanin content)

It is important to understand that this is an “off-label” use for the generic Careprost, while the branded equivalent Latisse is specifically FDA-approved for this purpose. The effects are not permanent; if treatment is stopped, eyelashes will gradually return to their original appearance over several weeks to months.

Important Safety Concerns and Considerations

Permanent Changes to Eye Appearance

The most significant concern with long-term use of bimatoprost is permanent darkening of the iris. This increase in brown pigment is gradual and may not be noticeable for months or years. It is more likely in individuals with mixed-color eyes (e.g., green-brown, blue-brown, yellow-brown). The change is likely irreversible even after stopping the medication. Eyelid skin darkening is also common and may be reversible upon discontinuation.

Periorbital Tissue Changes

Bimatoprost can cause changes in the fat tissues around the eye, leading to a sunken appearance of the eye (deepening of the eyelid sulcus) and loss of periorbital fat. These changes may be permanent and are a significant cosmetic concern for users seeking eyelash enhancement.

Risk of Contamination and Infection

As an ophthalmic solution applied near the eye, sterility is paramount. Using contaminated droppers or applicators can lead to serious eye infections. Always use the single-use applicators provided (for cosmetic use) and do not let the bottle tip touch your eye, fingers, or any other surface.

Unintended Hair Growth

If the solution repeatedly drips or is applied onto the skin of the cheeks or other areas, it can stimulate hair growth in those unintended areas. Careful application along the lash line and blotting excess solution is essential to prevent this.

Underlying Eye Conditions

Patients with a history of eye inflammation (uveitis, iritis), macular edema, or those who have had recent cataract surgery are at higher risk of developing complications like macular edema. A thorough eye examination by a doctor is necessary before starting treatment.

Critical Warnings for Careprost Use

Eye Color Change

Bimatoprost can gradually change the eye color by increasing the amount of brown pigment in the iris. This change occurs slowly and may be permanent. Patients should be informed of this possibility, especially those with mixed-color irises. Regular monitoring of the iris is advised.

Potential for Eyelid Changes and Sunken Eyes

Treatment may cause changes to the tissues around the eye, including deepening of the eyelid sulcus and recession of the eyelid. Patients should be examined regularly for these changes, and treatment discontinuation should be considered if they are observed.

Contamination Risk

To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including the eye, fingers, or countertop. Contaminated solutions can cause serious eye damage and lead to vision loss.

Use with Contact Lenses

Careprost contains benzalkonium chloride, a preservative that can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Contact lenses should be removed prior to application and may be reinserted 15 minutes after instilling the drops.

Systemic Absorption

Bimatoprost is absorbed through the ocular tissues and can have systemic effects. Applying pressure to the tear duct (punctal occlusion) for 1-2 minutes after instillation for glaucoma reduces systemic absorption and may minimize side effects.

Careprost Dosage Information

The dosage and application method differ based on the intended use. The following are general guidelines; always follow your doctor’s or the product’s specific instructions.

Important Administration Notes

• Missed Dose (Glaucoma): If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Missed Dose (Eyelashes): Resume the normal schedule the next evening. Do not apply extra to catch up.
• Discontinuation: For glaucoma, do not stop without consulting your doctor. For eyelashes, growth will revert to the original state several weeks to months after stopping.

Drug Interactions with Careprost

Careprost is a topical medication with minimal systemic absorption when used correctly, so significant drug-drug interactions are uncommon. However, local interactions with other eye medications are important.

Always inform your eye doctor about all medications and supplements you are using, including over-the-counter products.

Additional Information

Important Note on Cosmetic Use

While Careprost is effective for enhancing eyelashes, it is crucial to remember it is a prescription medication with potential side effects, some of which are permanent. A consultation with a healthcare professional, ideally an ophthalmologist or dermatologist, is recommended before starting cosmetic use to assess individual risks, especially regarding eye color change and periorbital tissue changes.

Reporting Side Effects

If you experience a side effect, especially a serious one like severe eye pain, vision changes, or signs of an allergic reaction, report it to your doctor. You are also encouraged to report adverse drug events to your national health authority (e.g., the FDA in the United States).

References and Medical Sources

The information on this page is compiled from reputable medical sources and prescribing information.

1. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Latisse (bimatoprost ophthalmic solution) 0.03% Prescribing Information. [Updated 2020]. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/021275s022lbl.pdf
2. MedlinePlus. Bimatoprost Ophthalmic. U.S. National Library of Medicine; [Updated 2022]. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a602030.html
3. American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). Eye drop medicines are helpful in treating glaucoma. [Reviewed 2023]. https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/glaucoma-eyedrop-medicine
4. Drugs.com. Bimatoprost Ophthalmic Professional Monograph. Drugs.com; [Updated 2024]. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/bimatoprost-ophthalmic.html

Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not self-medicate based on the information presented on this site. Always consult with a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health.