Prostaglandin analogue

Synthetic prostaglandin analogues are molecules which are manufactured to bind to a prostaglandin receptor.

Wider use of prostaglandin analogues is limited by unwanted side effects and their abortive potential.

Uses

 * Prostaglandin analogues such as misoprostol are used in treatment of duodenal and gastric ulcers. Misoprostol and other prostaglandin analogues protect the lining of the gastrointestinal tract from harmful stomach acid and are especially indicated for the elderly on continuous doses of NSAIDs.


 * Prostaglandin analogues can also be used in the management of open-angle glaucoma. They reduce intra-ocular pressure by enhancing uveoscleral outflow and may also have some effect on the trabecular meshwork as well. Latanoprost, travoprost, unoprostone and bimatoprost are examples of prostaglandin analogues used in the management of open-angle glaucoma. In some countries such as Australia, they are now considered first line agents in open-angle glaucoma (rather than beta blockers) However, a notable side effect is a possible darkening of iris color.

True synthetic prostaglandin E1 is also available pharmaceutically as alprostadil.