Key takeaways
Latanoprost (Xalatan, Xelpros) and pilocarpine (Salagen) are both medications used to treat conditions related to the eyes, but they work in different ways and treat different conditions. Latanoprost is a prostaglandin eye drop used to lower high pressure in the eye caused by ocular hypertension or open-angle glaucoma. It is applied once daily in the evening. Pilocarpine, on the other hand, is a cholinergic agonist taken orally to treat dry mouth due to radiation therapy for head and neck cancer or Sjögren's syndrome. It is taken 3 to 4 times a day. Latanoprost can cause changes in eye color and eyelash growth, while pilocarpine can cause sweating, nausea, and runny nose. Latanoprost is available as a generic, but Xelpros does not have a generic version. Pilocarpine is available as a lower-cost generic. Latanoprost is stored in the fridge until opened, while pilocarpine is taken by mouth and does not require refrigeration. Both medications require a prescription and are not controlled substances.
