Careprost

Careprost is an ophthalmic solution containing the active pharmaceutical ingredient Bimatoprost, originally developed for the management of glaucoma. Its notable secondary effect—significant eyelash hypertrichosis—led to its development as the first FDA-approved prescription treatment for inadequate or not enough eyelashes (hypotrichosis). This prostaglandin analogue works by extending the anagen (growth) phase of the eyelash hair cycle, increasing the percentage of hairs in this active phase, and stimulating the development of thicker, darker, and longer lashes. It represents a significant advancement in evidence-based dermatological and aesthetic treatments, offering a medical-grade solution to a common cosmetic concern.

Features

• Active Ingredient: Bimatoprost 0.03% (0.3 mg/mL)
• Formulation: Sterile, isotonic ophthalmic solution
• Presentation: Typically supplied in a 3mL tinted glass or plastic bottle with a sterile, single-use applicator brush
• Pharmacological Class: Prostaglandin analogue / prostamide F2α receptor agonist
• Prescription Status: Available by prescription only in most regions
• Mechanism of Action: Prostaglandin analogue that hypothetically increases the percent of hairs in, and the duration of, the anagen (growth) phase

Benefits

• Promotes measurable eyelash growth in length, thickness, and darkness through a well-understood pharmacological mechanism.
• Increases the overall density and fullness of the eyelash line, addressing the cosmetic appearance of hypotrichosis.
• Provides a clinically validated, non-invasive alternative to cosmetic procedures like eyelash extensions or tints.
• Delivers predictable and noticeable results typically observed within 4-16 weeks of consistent application.
• Offers a targeted treatment applied directly to the lash line, minimizing systemic exposure.

Common use

Careprost is indicated for the treatment of hypotrichosis of the eyelashes. Its use is intended for individuals who desire enhanced eyelash prominence and have been deemed suitable candidates by a qualified healthcare professional. It is applied topically to the skin of the upper eyelid margin at the base of the eyelashes.

Dosage and direction

The recommended dosage is one daily application in the evening. Using the supplied sterile applicator, one drop of solution should be placed on the applicator. The solution is then carefully applied in a thin line to the skin of the upper eyelid margin at the base of the eyelashes. It is imperative to apply it to the upper eyelid margin ONLY; application to the lower lid is not recommended as it may increase the risk of unwanted hair growth or side effects such as skin darkening. Any excess solution outside the upper eyelid margin should be blotted away with a tissue. To prevent potential contamination, each applicator is for single use only and must be discarded after application. Contact lenses must be removed prior to application and may be reinserted 15 minutes afterwards.

Precautions

• Strict aseptic technique is required during handling to prevent microbial contamination of the solution, which could lead to serious ocular infections.
• The solution is for external use only. It must not be allowed to enter the eye directly. If contact with the ocular surface occurs, thoroughly rinse the eye with copious amounts of warm water.
• Patients should be monitored for periocular skin pigmentation (darkening), which is a known possible side effect and may be reversible upon discontinuation.
• Iris pigmentation (permanent darkening of the iris/eye color) is a well-documented effect of prostaglandin analogues used in the eye; while the risk is considered lower with topical eyelid margin application, patients with heterochromia (different colored eyes) or hazel, green-brown, blue-brown, or yellow-brown eyes should be aware of this potential irreversible change.
• Use with caution in patients with active ocular inflammation (e.g., conjunctivitis, uveitis) or a history of herpes simplex keratitis.
• Patients should be advised that use on the lower lid may result in unwanted hair growth outside the treatment area.

Contraindications

Careprost is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Bimatoprost or any other component of the formulation. Its use is also contraindicated in the presence of active, suspected, or pre-existing ocular infections or uncontrolled inflammatory eye conditions.

Possible side effect

Like all pharmaceuticals, Careprost can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. The most commonly reported side effects are local and ocular in nature. These include:

• Ocular effects: Eye pruritus (itching), conjunctival hyperemia (redness), dry eye sensation, ocular irritation, and foreign body sensation.
• Dermatological effects: Periocular skin hyperpigmentation (darkening of the eyelid skin), which is usually reversible upon discontinuation of therapy.
• Hair growth effects: Unintended hair growth in areas of the skin that the solution frequently touches (e.g., cheekbones, lower eyelid if misapplied). Vellus hair may also grow along the application line.
• Less common but serious: Iris pigmentation (permanent darkening of eye color), eyelid skin tightening, iritis/uveitis, macular edema (particularly in aphakic patients, pseudophakic patients with a torn posterior lens capsule, or patients with known risk factors), and herpes simplex keratitis reactivation.

Drug interaction

Formal topical interaction studies have not been conducted. However, caution is advised when using Careprost concomitantly with other topical ophthalmic medications. To prevent dilution or interaction, a minimum of 5-10 minutes should elapse between the application of different eye products. There is a theoretical potential for an additive effect on iris pigmentation when used with other prostaglandin analogues.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, the patient should apply it as soon as remembered on the same day. If the day has passed, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular application schedule should resume the following evening. The dose should not be doubled to make up for a missed application.

Overdose

An overdose from topical ocular administration is unlikely. If the entire contents of the bottle are ingested orally, medical attention should be sought immediately. Symptoms of systemic overdose via ingestion may be related to prostaglandin effects and could include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and hypotension. Symptomatic and supportive care is recommended.

Storage

Store the unopened bottle in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Once the bottle is opened for use, it may be stored at room temperature up to 25°C (77°F) for a period of 6 weeks. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed in its original carton to protect it from light. Keep out of the reach and sight of children.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Careprost is a prescription medication. A thorough evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physician, ophthalmologist, or dermatologist, is necessary to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you. Do not initiate, discontinue, or change the dosage of any medicine before consulting with your doctor. Only use this medication as personally prescribed.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-market surveillance data demonstrate high efficacy. In a pivotal 5-month, double-masked, randomized, vehicle-controlled study, patients using Bimatoprost 0.03% showed statistically significant improvement in eyelash prominence, including increases in length (106% vs. 12% vehicle), thickness (78% vs. 13% vehicle), and darkness (18% increase in darkness vs. 3% for vehicle) based on digital image analysis. Patient-reported satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the treatment group. Reviews from prescribing clinicians often note predictable results with strict adherence to the application protocol, while also emphasizing the importance of patient selection and education regarding potential side effects.