Careprost 3 ml (0.03%) is an ophthalmic solution containing bimatoprost 0.03% w/v. It is used both as a prescription treatment to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma and ocular hypertension, and as a topical eyelash serum to treat hypotrichosis by increasing eyelash length, thickness, and darkness when applied carefully to the upper eyelid margin. Careprost is a widely used generic formulation and commonly supplied in a 3 ml dropper bottle.

Key Features

How Careprost (Bimatoprost) Works

Bimatoprost is a prostaglandin analogue that promotes eyelash growth by increasing the number and duration of hairs in the growth phase (anagen), resulting in longer, thicker, and darker lashes. When used as an eye drop for glaucoma, it lowers intraocular pressure by enhancing aqueous humor outflow. For eyelash enhancement, it’s applied topically to the upper eyelid margin once daily.

Indications / Uses

• Eyelash hypotrichosis: Enhances eyelash length, thickness, and darkness in people with insufficient lashes.
• Glaucoma / ocular hypertension: Used under medical supervision to lower intraocular pressure.

Dosage & How to Use

1. Remove contact lenses and wash hands and face; wait 15 minutes before reinsertion if contacts used.
2. Use sterile single-use applicator; apply one drop to the upper eyelid margin along the lash line.
3. Avoid applying to lower eyelid or directly into eye.
4. Blot excess with tissue; dispose of applicator.
5. Use once nightly; more frequent use does not increase benefit and may increase side effects.

Visible changes typically begin around 4 weeks with peak effects at 12-16 weeks. Cessation leads to gradual return to baseline.

Expected Benefits

• Longer lashes: Noticeable length increase over several weeks.
• Thicker and fuller lashes: Increased hair density and diameter.
• Darker pigmentation: Darker lashes enhancing appearance.
• Cosmetic confidence: Reduced need for false lashes or heavy makeup.

Side Effects

Generally mild and local, reversible upon cessation:

• Eye irritation, redness, itching, or foreign body sensation.
• Dry eyes.
• Periorbital skin darkening.

Less common but potentially permanent:

• Iris pigmentation: Increased brown coloration, likely permanent.

Other reported issues include macular edema and intraocular inflammation in susceptible patients. Seek medical help for severe eye pain, vision changes, or prolonged irritation.

Interactions & Important Clinical Notes

• Ocular hypotensive drugs: Monitor if using multiple prostaglandins; can affect intraocular pressure.
• Contact lenses: Remove before application; wait before reinsertion to avoid irritation.
• Systemic absorption: Minimal, but report if pregnant, breastfeeding, or on multiple meds.

Pharmacokinetics

Low systemic absorption after topical eyelid application; acts locally on hair follicles; safety precautions apply.

Precautions & Who Should Be Careful

• Do not use if allergic to bimatoprost or product components.
• Cautious use with active eye inflammation, macular edema, or retinal conditions.
• Warn patients about possible permanent iris color changes.
• Consult if pregnant or nursing; limited data available.
• Avoid excess spread to skin to prevent unwanted hair growth.

Storage & Handling

• Store at room temperature, protect from light and moisture. Use single-use applicators; do not share.

Practical Tips & Realistic Expectations

• Use consistently once nightly for best results.
• Avoid applying to lower eyelid to prevent run-off.
• Results develop over weeks to months; effects revert if stopped.
• Refer to proprietary product (Latisse) labels for detailed info.

Conclusion

Careprost 3 ml (0.03%) offers clinically meaningful eyelash enhancement with proper use and guidance, but patients should be aware of potential irritation, skin darkening, and rare permanent effects. Follow prescriptions and consult your prescriber about health conditions before starting.

FAQ’s

Is Careprost the same as Latisse?

Yes, Careprost contains the same active ingredient (bimatoprost 0.03%) as Latisse, the FDA-approved branded product. Careprost is a generic brand by Sun Pharma with potentially different excipients.

How soon will I see results?

Results appear around 4 weeks, with maximum effect by 12–16 weeks. Individual results may vary.

Are lash gains permanent?

No, gains persist only during use and revert gradually after stopping.

Can it change my eye color?

There is a risk of permanent increased brown pigmentation of the iris; discuss with your prescriber.

Is it safe to use with contact lenses?

Remove lenses before application and wait ~15 minutes before reinserting.

Can anyone buy Careprost over the counter?

No, it is prescription medication. Use licensed pharmacies and medical advice to avoid counterfeit products.

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576421/

https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Bimatoprost