Careprost has emerged as a significant medication in the pharmaceutical industry over the past several decades, with diverse usage in ophthalmology and dermatology. Bimatoprost, the active ingredient in Careprost, addresses medical and cosmetic concerns. Originally discovered as an ocular hypotensive agent, it has been clinically tested to be highly efficacious in treating cases of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The potential to reduce intraocular pressure has established this ophthalmic solution as a first-line treatment option for such eye conditions, while also improving management and preventing vision loss.

In dermatology, Bimatoprost has demonstrated promising results in stimulating lash growth, particularly in the treatment of hypotrichosis. The mechanism of action of Bimatoprost involves stimulating the hair follicle cycle and prolonging the growth phase, thereby improving lash growth. The worldwide use of Careprost Bimatoprost has expanded significantly, with applications growing beyond its initial indication.

FDA-approved indicative product

• Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension

The topical Bimatoprost, at a concentration of 0.03%, is a synthetic prostamide related to prostaglandins. The pharmaceutical agent was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2001 for the treatment of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Numerous studies and clinical trials demonstrated that topical Bimatoprost reduces IOP in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Lengthening of lashes is a well-documented adverse effect of careprost during glaucoma treatment.  

• Hypotrichosis          

In 2008, the FDA approved ophthalmic Bimatoprost 0.03% for the treatment of hypotrichosis, such as in patients post-chemotherapy. Gradual development of sparse hair is hypotrichosis. The condition may be present at birth or in infancy and tends to thin with age. Bimatoprost-containing products like careprost are often purchased as over-the-counter cosmetic solutions, as they can lead to longer, darker, and thicker eyelashes. For ophthalmic solutions at 0.03% concentration used to lower IOP, once-daily application may be effective in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension.    

Action mechanism in the reduction of intraocular pressure                

It has been well documented that careprost Bimatoprost effectively reduces IOP and is considered a standard first-line treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma. This is usually achieved through increasing aqueous outflow.    

Action mechanism in the enhancement of eyelash growth

The ability of Careprost to promote eyelash growth and thickness was first observed during glaucoma clinical trials to assess its potential to lower IOP. The treatment increases the percentage of eyelash hair follicles in the anagen (growth) phase at any one time, indicating eyelash lengthening.  Bimatoprost appears to stimulate melanogenesis, resulting in darker lash hairs, and at the same time increases the size of the dermal papilla and hair bulb, making the eyelashes thicker and fuller. The kinds of effects are largely demonstrated in the research industries. The favourable profile of the pharmaceutical agent is likely secondary to the limited exposure of eye tissues from topical application at the base of the upper eyelashes. By affecting the eyelash hair cycle and follicles,  Careprost  0.03%  eye drops is a safe and effective product for enhancing eyelash growth.  

A series of research studies revealed that, within a two-week course, a greater proportion of follicles were in the growth phase of the hair follicle cycle and a smaller proportion were in the telogen (resting) phase, indicating an increased transition from telogen to growth.  Furthermore, scientific evidence shows that this increased proportion of follicles in the growth phase significantly enhances lash growth with Careprost. The FDA approved Bimatoprost for treating hypotrichosis of eyelashes in the late 2000s after the reported adverse effects of this medication in patients using it for glaucoma and ocular hypertension.                                                                                                                                                                 

Clinical effectiveness

It is shown that reducing IOP in patients with ocular hypertension and glaucoma may reduce the risk of disease progression. All types of current treatment, including medical topical formulations, laser treatments, and surgery, are available to lower IOP to slow down irreversible glaucomatous progression. Numerous studies have demonstrated that IOP reduction with prostaglandins ranges from 28% to 31%. 

Compared with other currently available ophthalmic prostaglandin preparations, including travoprost and latanoprost, evidence from numerous scientific studies indicates that Bimatoprost tends to be more effective, or at least as effective, in reducing IOP. Many other clinical trials have demonstrated that switching from other prostaglandins to bimatoprost 0.03% ophthalmic solution is more effective than switching to travoprost or latanoprost at reducing IOP, with a statistically significant reduction in mean IOP after the switch.    

Generally, the effects on lowering IOP begin within 4 hours after administering the careprost solution, with maximum effects expected after 8 to 12 hours and lasting for 24 hours. The ophthalmic solution should be administered once nightly before you sleep.     

The majority of scientific studies related to careprost Bimatoprost have shown clinical effectiveness and first-line treatment in lowering IOP in those with primary open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. A number of clinical trials included patients with various types of glaucoma, including pigmentary, pseudoexfoliative, chronic, and angle-closure.

Benefits of Careprost Bimatoprost

     ‒    Treating glaucoma and ocular hypertension

As mentioned above, one of the primary uses of Careprost eye drops 0.03% solution is to treat glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The Bimatoprost in the ophthalmic formulation stimulated hair follicles, making the sparse eyelashes appear longer, darker, and thicker. This has made Careprost extremely popular and a preferred choice for individuals looking to improve their eyelashes. For those who wish to improve the appearance of their eyelashes, this product is highly recommended.  

     ‒    Promoting lash growth

Careprost eye drops have also been found effective in promoting eyelash growth. Many people across the world are coming forward to stimulate lash hair growth with this wonder formula.    

     ‒    Enhancing lash growth

Careprost helps preserve the existing lashes and improve their appearance. It makes your already fragile eyelashes appear longer and fuller.    

     ‒    Proper usage and dosage

To achieve the desired effects from Careprost 0.03% while reducing the risks, it is important to use it correctly.

     ‒    Affordable alternative to branded eyelash serums 

Careprost is an affordable alternative to branded eyelash serums when you wish to enhance your eyelash length without disturbing your budget. Careprost works similarly to brand drugs such as Latisse and Lumigan when you seek eyelash growth. 

Drug contraindications

     ‒    Careprost is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Bimatoprost or any other ingredients in the formulation. The eye drops are not advised for use in patients with a history of prior adverse reactions to benzalkonium chloride that led to discontinuation.

     ‒    The use of Bimatoprost may not be appropriate for treating some cases of closed-angle glaucoma and inflammatory glaucoma. Contact lenses must be removed before the eye drops are applied. They can be reinserted after fifteen minutes.    

     ‒    The safety and effectiveness of the eye drop dermal application for hypotrichosis have not been investigated in neonates and children.

     ‒    The eye drop has not been adequately investigated in pregnant women and paediatric patients. It should be avoided completely or used with caution during pregnancy, unless deemed necessary.  Moreover, teh presence or absence of the solution in breast milk has not been established; hence, it should be avoided during breastfeeding.  

Precautions and warnings

Bimatoprost, present in careprost eye drops, has been reported to cause changes in pigmented areas of the skin. The most common reported changes have been increased pigmentation of the iris, periorbital tissue, and eyelashes. Pigmentation is believed to increase as long as the ophthalmic solution is used. Careprost may gradually change the appearance of eyelashes and short, fine hair in the treated eye. These changes in lashes include increased length, thickness and number of eyelashes. Lash changes are usually reversible upon stopping the medication completely.  Macular oedema has been reported while using the ophthalmic solution. The eye care product should be used with caution in individuals with known risk factors for macular oedema.      

Safety and tolerability

Treatment with Careprost once daily has a favourable safety profile and effectiveness and is well tolerated in most patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension as compared to other prostaglandin formulations. The risk of developing side effects of periocular pigmentation, conjunctival hyperemia, and growth of lashes is slightly higher with Bimatoprost 0.03%   ophthalmic solution.

Administration methods

Application for glaucoma and ocular hypertension

Careprost ophthalmic solution may be used as eye drops instilled directly to the ocular surface. The usual recommended dose is one drop every evening. The patient should wait at least 5 minutes between administering Bimatoprost and other ophthalmic solutions or artificial tears. After administering the eye drop, the reduction in IOP has been shown to begin after 4 hours, reach its peak after 12 hours, and persist for 24 hours. A 1-year clinical trial showed that the prostaglandin solution effectively reduces IOP in the long term and is generally well tolerated. 

Application for hypotrichosis

Careprost 0.03% eye drops are most commonly used and closely related to the increased growth with once daily usage. The eye drop and the included applicator brush are readily available commercially as a 3ml solution. Before applying the lash enhancement solution, patients should remove contact lenses. While using Bimatoprost solution, applying another solution to the eye is not recommended. At bedtime, a drop of the ophthalmic preparation is placed on the sterilised applicator and brushed along the base of the upper lash line. The applicator brush is intended for use in only one eye to prevent contamination. The product should be applied for at least 16 weeks for maximum lash growth.  

Adverse effects of eyelash growth serum

Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the high safety and tolerability of Bimatoprost when used on the ocular surface or eyelids.    

The most common adverse effects associated with the  regular usage of Bimotoprost  0.03% solution:

     ‒    Conjunctival hyperemia (the redness of the white part of the eye due to the dilation of the blood vessels in the conjunctiva.

     ‒    Eyelash growth and darkening

     ‒    Blepharitis (Inflammation and infection of the eyelid, causing redness, itchiness, irritation, and crusty flakes at the base of eyelashes).

     ‒    Eye pruritus and erythema

     ‒    Conjunctivitis

     ‒    Burning irritation

     ‒    Iris pigmentation

     ‒    Pigmentation of eyelid margins and periocular regions

     ‒    Visual disturbances

     ‒    Foreign body sensation

     ‒    Tearing

     ‒    Photophobia

     ‒    Eye stinging and pain

According to research studies, prostaglandin-associated peri-orbitopathy (changes around the eyes involving fat loss in the orbit, leading to droopy eyelid, sunken look, visible blood vessels,   deeper eyelid crease and thinner skin.      

The ophthalmic solution used as an eye drop affects the pigmentation of the iris. People with brown or hazel-coloured irises are more likely to experience hyperpigmentation with Bimatoprost, and this side effect is irreversible in most cases. Darkening of the iris usually occurs within the first year of using the ophthalmic product and increases with continued use.

Related to the cosmetic use of careprost, research studies have shown that the safety profile of Bimatoprost for dermal application is more favourable than that observed with topical eye drop application. The difference in application may explain the significant difference in side-effect incidence between the two methods. These side effects have been reported in fewer than 4% of patients following dermal use of the ophthalmic solution:

     ‒    Conjunctival hyperemia

     ‒    Skin hyperpigmentation

     ‒    Dry eye syndrome

     ‒    Eye pruritus

     ‒    Eyelid erythema

     ‒    Ocular irritation

 Storage instructions 

     ‒    Keep away from sunlight.

     ‒    Store below 25 degrees

     ‒    Keep the bottle closed tightly

     ‒    Do not freeze

     ‒    Keep out of reach of children

Purchasing Careprost online

     ‒    When using Careprost online, keep teh following in mind:

     ‒    Purchase from a licensed pharmacy

     ‒    Ensure that teh packaging is not damaged

     ‒    Avoid using counterfeit products

     ‒    Check the manufacturing and expiry date