Travoprost: A Practical Guide to Using This Glaucoma Eye Drop

Travoprost is a prescription eye drop used to lower eye pressure in people with glaucoma or ocular hypertension. If your doctor suggested travoprost, you probably want clear, useful tips—how to use it, what to watch for, and how to avoid common mistakes. This short guide gives exactly that in plain language.

How travoprost works and when you use it

Travoprost belongs to a group called prostaglandin analogs. It helps fluid drain from the eye faster, which lowers pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure). Lowering pressure reduces the risk of damage to the optic nerve and vision loss. Doctors usually prescribe it once a day, often at bedtime, because that timing tends to be most effective and easier to remember.

Use travoprost if you have open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension and your doctor thinks a prostaglandin analog is the right choice. If you already use other eye medicines, tell your doctor—some combinations change how well treatments work.

How to use travoprost safely

Follow the steps below every time you use the drops: wash your hands, tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid to form a small pocket, squeeze one drop into the eye, close your eye gently for 1–2 minutes, and press a finger lightly at the inner corner (near the nose) to reduce systemic absorption. Avoid touching the tip of the bottle to your eye—this keeps the dropper clean.

If you wear contact lenses, take them out before putting in the drops. Wait at least 15 minutes after the drop before re-inserting lenses. If you use more than one eye medicine, wait at least 5 minutes between different drops to avoid washing out the first medication.

Missed a dose? Put the drop in as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Don’t double up.

Storage varies by brand: some need refrigeration before opening, while others can be stored at room temperature. Always read the leaflet and follow the label. If in doubt, ask your pharmacist.

Common side effects include eye redness, burning or stinging, blurred vision, longer or darker eyelashes, and darker skin around the eye. A less common but important effect is a change in iris color—this can be permanent. If you have eye pain, sudden vision changes, or signs of infection, contact your doctor right away.

Travoprost may not be right if you have a history of eye inflammation, certain allergies, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding—talk to your doctor about risks and alternatives. Regular eye exams and pressure checks are essential while you use it.

Alternatives include other prostaglandin drops like latanoprost, bimatoprost, and tafluprost, or different classes such as beta-blocker drops. Your choice depends on side effects, cost, and how well your pressure responds. Ask your eye doctor for options that fit your needs and lifestyle.

If anything feels off or you’re unsure how to use the drops, call your eye clinic or pharmacist. Small changes in routine can protect your vision over the long run.