TLDR Prostaglandin eye drops for glaucoma can rarely cause too much cheek hair growth.
The document reports a rare side effect of prostaglandin analogue eye drops, which are typically prescribed for primary open angle glaucoma. While it is commonly known that these eye drops can cause an increase in eyelash number, size, and pigmentation, the case presented reveals an unusual extent of hair growth in the malar region (cheek area) of the face. This excessive hair growth was deemed unacceptable and is highlighted as a potential reason for patients to discontinue the use of prostaglandin analogue therapy.
103 citations,
April 2005 in “Experimental dermatology” Prostaglandin F2alpha and related compounds can increase hair growth and darken hair in mice.
23 citations,
April 2004 in “American Journal of Ophthalmology” Using bimatoprost on one side of the face caused increased cheek hair growth in a patient.
162 citations,
August 2002 in “Survey of Ophthalmology” Latanoprost can make eyelashes longer, thicker, and darker.
33 citations,
January 2002 Latanoprost, a glaucoma drug, showed potential for promoting hair growth in bald monkeys, especially at higher doses.
5 citations,
July 2014 in “Actas dermo-sifiliográficas/Actas dermo-sifiliográficas” Latanoprost eye drops caused excessive hair growth and eyelash whitening in a woman.
1 citations,
January 2015 in “Actas dermo-sifiliográficas/Actas dermo-sifiliográficas” Latanoprost eye drops caused excessive cheek hair growth and eyelash whitening in a woman.
2 citations,
January 2021 in “Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology” Betamethasone is more effective for hair regrowth than latanoprost but has more side effects.
69 citations,
April 2010 in “Clinical ophthalmology” Bimatoprost is effective for growing longer, thicker, and darker eyelashes.
1 citations,
December 2019 in “Clinical ophthalmology” Bimatoprost eye drops make rabbit eyelashes longer, thicker, and darker, and increase the number of lashes without causing inflammation.
