Latanoprost
| Evidence Level: L2 | Predicted Indications: 10 |
Table of Contents
Latanoprost: From Ocular Hypotensive Therapy to Primary Hereditary Glaucoma
One-Sentence Summary
Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2-alpha analogue eye drop that is already marketed in South Africa as an anti-glaucoma agent. The TxGNN model predicts it may be effective for primary hereditary glaucoma, with 1 clinical trial (Phase 2, completed) and no publications currently supporting this direction. This may be a label-extension or subtype question rather than true repurposing.
Quick Overview
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Original Indication | Not stated in the SAHPRA records supplied (latanoprost is a marketed anti-glaucoma agent) |
| Predicted New Indication | Primary hereditary glaucoma |
| TxGNN Prediction Score | 99.88% |
| Evidence Level | L2 |
| South Africa Market Status | Marketed |
| Number of SAHPRA Registrations | 3 |
| Recommended Decision | Proceed with Guardrails |
Why is This Prediction Reasonable?
Detailed mechanism of action data is not available in the Evidence Pack. Latanoprost is a prostaglandin F2-alpha analogue. It lowers intraocular pressure by increasing uveoscleral outflow, so its mechanism fits glaucoma directly.
The registration records list no approved indication text, so the relationship between the original and predicted indications cannot be confirmed from the data. Latanoprost is already used as a glaucoma drug. The prediction may therefore concern a specific subtype (hereditary or paediatric glaucoma) rather than a new disease area.
The single supporting trial title is truncated, so the exact glaucoma subtype cannot be confirmed. The trial also tested a prostaglandin analogue together with a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor. The effect specific to latanoprost may therefore be confounded.
Clinical Trial Evidence
| Trial Number | Phase | Status | Enrollment | Key Findings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NCT01527682 | Phase 2 | Completed | 37 | Assessed the intraocular-pressure-lowering effect and safety of latanoprost and dorzolamide in paediatric glaucoma patients refractory to surgery (2009-2016). Results, randomisation and design are unverified. |
No SANCTR or PACTR registrations were identified in the supplied data.
Literature Evidence
Currently no related literature available.
South Africa Market Information
| Registration Number | Product Name | Dosage Form | Approved Indication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reg. No. 46/15.4/0918 | Spersatan | Drops | Not stated in the records supplied |
| Reg. No. 51/15.4/0618 | Aglatan | Drops | Not stated in the records supplied |
| Reg. No. 47/15.4/0528 | Co-atana 2.5ml | Drops | Not stated in the records supplied |
Essential Medicines List (EML) status was not included in the Evidence Pack and should be checked separately.
Safety Considerations
- Drug Interactions: The DDI query returned no records (not found).
Please refer to the SAHPRA-approved Professional Information (PI) for warnings and contraindications. Report adverse drug reactions to SAHPRA.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Decision: Proceed with Guardrails
Rationale: One completed Phase 2 trial in paediatric glaucoma, a mechanism that fits glaucoma, and an existing South African market presence support further evaluation. The evidence is limited by the small sample, the combination-therapy design and unverified results. The safety data gap is also blocking.
To proceed, the following is needed:
- Download and review the SAHPRA package inserts for warnings and contraindications (blocking data gap).
- Verify the design, population, subtype and results of NCT01527682, and confirm whether latanoprost-specific effects can be separated from the combination.
- Check the current SAHPRA label for hereditary or paediatric glaucoma coverage, and obtain the approved indication text for the three registrations.
- Obtain mechanism of action data from DrugBank.
- Run a formal literature search. Other predictions, such as hypotrichosis simplex of the scalp (biologically plausible through the known hair-growth effect of prostaglandin analogues), remain prediction only with no supporting studies.
Disclaimer
This content is for research purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical validation is required before any clinical application.