Prostaglandin Analogues: What They Are, How They Work, and Where They're Used

When you hear prostaglandin analogues, synthetic versions of natural body chemicals that regulate inflammation, blood flow, and muscle contraction. Also known as PG analogs, they're not just lab creations—they're the reason millions of people manage eye pressure every day. These compounds mimic the behavior of prostaglandins, which your body makes naturally to control things like uterine contractions, stomach lining protection, and blood vessel dilation. But in medicine, we tweak them to target specific problems—like high eye pressure in glaucoma or thinning eyelashes.

Two of the most common bimatoprost, a prostaglandin analogue used to lower intraocular pressure and stimulate eyelash growth. Also known as Latisse, it's the same active ingredient in both glaucoma drops and cosmetic eyelash serums. and latanoprost, a first-generation prostaglandin analogue approved for daily use in open-angle glaucoma. Also known as Xalatan, it reduces fluid buildup in the eye by increasing drainage through the uveoscleral pathway. are used daily by patients worldwide. They don’t just lower eye pressure—they do it with once-daily dosing, fewer side effects than older drugs like beta-blockers, and no need for multiple daily drops. That’s why they’re now the first-line treatment for most types of glaucoma. But they’re not limited to eyes. Some analogues are used in obstetrics to induce labor, others in treating stomach ulcers by boosting mucus production. The same chemical family does very different jobs depending on how and where it’s applied.

What you won’t find in most drug labels is how these compounds affect more than just pressure or lashes. They can cause darkening of the iris, increased brown pigmentation around the eyes, and even changes in eyelid skin texture over time. That’s why doctors monitor patients closely—not just for effectiveness, but for subtle, long-term changes. And while they’re often prescribed for chronic conditions, they’re not magic. They work best when taken consistently, at the same time every day, and when patients understand that stopping them can mean a quick return of high pressure.

Below, you’ll find real comparisons between these drugs and their alternatives—what works faster, what costs less, and which ones come with unexpected side effects. Whether you’re using them for glaucoma, eyelash growth, or just trying to understand why your doctor chose one drop over another, the posts here cut through the noise and give you straight answers based on actual use, not marketing.