The Journey from Glaucoma Treatment to Eyelash Enhancer
Latisse's active ingredient, bimatoprost, was first used in a medicated eye drop called Lumigan, approved in 2001 to treat high eye pressure (ocular hypertension) and glaucoma [1.2.7, 1.6.4]. Patients using Lumigan reported a noticeable side effect: their eyelashes were growing longer, thicker, and darker [1.6.4]. This discovery prompted Allergan, the manufacturer, to study bimatoprost specifically for eyelash growth. After clinical trials, the FDA approved Latisse on December 24, 2008, for the treatment of hypotrichosis, the medical term for having inadequate eyelashes [1.6.1, 1.6.5].
Understanding Latisse's Patent and Generic Availability
The question of when did Latisse go generic? involves patent law and FDA approvals. A drug's patent protects it from generic competition for a set period [1.3.5]. Latisse was protected by multiple patents covering its formulation and method of use [1.2.1, 1.3.2]. While some patents were set to expire as late as May 2024, generic manufacturers can challenge these patents [1.2.2, 1.3.2].
The FDA granted approval to several companies to market generic bimatoprost ophthalmic solution 0.03% well before all of Latisse's patents expired. For instance, Apotex received approval in December 2014, and Sandoz launched its generic version in December 2016 [1.2.3, 1.2.5]. The final key patents for Latisse expired in May 2024, opening the market for more generic competition [1.3.2, 1.2.1].
How Bimatoprost Promotes Eyelash Growth
Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analog, a synthetic compound that mimics naturally occurring substances in the body [1.7.1, 1.4.7]. It is believed to work by interacting with prostaglandin receptors in the hair follicles [1.7.3]. This interaction affects the eyelash growth cycle in two main ways:
- It increases the duration of the growth (anagen) phase: This allows eyelashes to grow longer than they normally would [1.4.5, 1.7.4].
- It increases the number of hairs that sprout during the growth phase: This results in fuller, thicker lashes [1.7.1, 1.7.6].
Clinical studies have shown significant results after 16 weeks of daily use, with users experiencing lashes that are up to 25% longer, 106% fuller, and 18% darker [1.4.5, 1.4.6]. If you stop using bimatoprost, your eyelashes will gradually return to their previous appearance over several weeks to months [1.7.1].
Brand Name vs. Generic: A Comparison
Generic bimatoprost 0.03% is FDA-approved and considered bioequivalent to Latisse, meaning it has the same active ingredient, strength, and efficacy [1.4.7]. The primary differences for consumers are cost and branding.
| Feature | Latisse (Brand Name) | Bimatoprost (Generic) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Bimatoprost 0.03% [1.4.2] | Bimatoprost 0.03% [1.4.7] |
| FDA Approved | Yes, for hypotrichosis [1.6.1] | Yes, for hypotrichosis [1.4.1] |
| Efficacy | Clinically proven for length, thickness, and darkness [1.4.6] | Same clinical efficacy as the brand name [1.4.7] |
| Application | Once daily to the base of upper eyelashes with a sterile applicator [1.7.1] | Once daily to the base of upper eyelashes with a sterile applicator [1.4.6] |
| Cost (approx.) | $130–$150 per 3-5 mL bottle [1.5.4, 1.5.5] | As low as $35–$60 per 3-5 mL bottle [1.5.2, 1.5.6] |
| Prescription Required | Yes [1.4.3] | Yes [1.4.7] |
Potential Side Effects and Safety Considerations
Both Latisse and generic bimatoprost have the same potential side effects. The most common ones, occurring in about 3-4% of users, include itchy or red eyes and darkening of the eyelid skin at the application site [1.8.3, 1.6.6].
Other less common but important side effects include:
- Dry eyes and eye irritation [1.8.3].
- Permanent darkening of the iris: This is rare but may cause the colored part of the eye to turn more brown over months or years [1.8.4].
- Hair growth outside the treatment area: If the solution regularly drips onto other skin, it can cause hair to grow there. It is important to blot away any excess solution [1.7.1, 1.8.5].
Before using bimatoprost, you should remove contact lenses and put them back in 15 minutes after application [1.7.1]. It's crucial to use the provided sterile, single-use applicators to prevent eye infections [1.4.7]. You should discuss your full medical history with your doctor, especially if you have eye conditions like glaucoma or uveitis [1.7.3].
Conclusion
Generic versions of Latisse have been available for several years, with the first approvals dating back to 2014 and 2016 [1.2.3, 1.2.5]. With the final patents expiring in May 2024, access to affordable, FDA-approved generic bimatoprost has increased significantly [1.2.1]. This allows more individuals to use this proven treatment for eyelash hypotrichosis, achieving the same results as the brand name product but at a fraction of the cost. As with any prescription medication, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it is the right choice for you and to use it as directed to maximize benefits and minimize risks. For more authoritative information on prescription drugs, you can visit the FDA's website.
