Xalatan vs Plan B: side-by-side comparison
Xalatan (Eye Care and Ophthalmic Treatments) and Plan B (Hormones and Birth Control) belong to different therapeutic classes and are rarely interchangeable. This page compares the medications' purposes, mechanisms and the situations where each is used.
| Property | Xalatan | Plan B |
|---|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Latanoprost | Levonorgestrel |
| Manufacturer | Pfizer | Foundation Consumer Healthcare |
| Class | Eye Care and Ophthalmic Treatments | Hormones and Birth Control |
| Strengths | 0.005% | 1.5mg |
| Forms | ophthalmic solution | tablet |
What's the same
Xalatan and Plan B are used in very different patients, and the points in common are limited. The main shared element is that both meet regulatory standards for efficacy and safety and benefit from pharmacist oversight.
Key differences
Xalatan belongs to Eye Care and Ophthalmic Treatments while Plan B belongs to Hormones and Birth Control. Indications, mechanisms and target populations differ. The comparison is most useful when a clinician has mentioned both medications and the patient wants to understand where each fits.
Mechanism and action
Xalatan: Latanoprost is a prodrug ester hydrolysed by corneal esterases to its active free acid, which selectively binds the prostaglandin F (FP) receptor. Plan B: Plan B's primary mechanism is delaying or preventing ovulation when taken before the LH surge.
When Xalatan is preferred
Xalatan is approved in adults and children for the reduction of elevated intraocular pressure in patients with chronic open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
When Plan B is preferred
Plan B is indicated for emergency contraception after unprotected intercourse or known/suspected contraceptive failure, in women of reproductive age.
Frequently asked questions
Is Xalatan or Plan B better? ▾
Xalatan and Plan B are not interchangeable — they treat different conditions. Asking which is "better" is meaningful only when a clinician has weighed both for the same specific clinical scenario.
Can I switch from Xalatan to Plan B? ▾
Switching between Xalatan and Plan B is rarely an appropriate decision since they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. The real question is usually whether the diagnosis calls for one medication or the other — which the prescriber resolves.
Do Xalatan and Plan B have the same side effects? ▾
No — they belong to different classes and have distinct side-effect profiles. Each medication has its own prescribing information.
More Xalatan comparisons
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.