Prostaglandin analogue
Latanoprost in Italy: prescription, brands, pricing
This page summarises the situation of Latanoprost in Italy under AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco): prescription status, available brands and generics, pharmacy dispensing, and online options in EUR. Latanoprost belongs to the Prostaglandin analogue class.
- Regulator
- AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco)
- Currency
- EUR
About Latanoprost
Latanoprost is approved in adults and children for the treatment of ocular hypertension and chronic open-angle glaucoma. Italy uses class A (mostly free under SSN), class C (patient pays) and SOP/OTC tiers. Prescriptions are issued via SSN doctors with electronic prescriptions widely adopted.
Mechanism and action
Latanoprost is a prodrug ester hydrolysed by corneal esterases to its active free acid, which selectively binds the prostaglandin F (FP) receptor.
Brands and generics in Italy
In Italy, Latanoprost is typically dispensed as one internationally recognised brand along with their corresponding authorised generics. Italian farmacie are heavily regulated independent businesses, with a strong pharmacist-as-consultant tradition. Para-farmacie can sell OTC products outside the traditional pharmacy network. Brand-to-generic substitution is decided by the pharmacist under local AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco) equivalence rules, and the price difference in EUR is usually substantial.
Online and tele-prescribing access
Online sale of prescription medication is not permitted in Italy; AIFA-registered online pharmacies handle OTC only. Tele-prescribing through SSN doctors has expanded for chronic conditions. For Latanoprost specifically, the legal online options in Italy depend on its Rx-or-OTC classification under AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco).
Frequently asked questions
Is Latanoprost available in Italy? ▾
Yes — Latanoprost and its brands are available in Italy through pharmacies authorised by AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco), in various strengths depending on the commercial product. Authorised generics offer a lower-cost alternative with the same active substance.
Do I need a prescription for Latanoprost in Italy? ▾
Italy uses class A (mostly free under SSN), class C (patient pays) and SOP/OTC tiers. Prescriptions are issued via SSN doctors with electronic prescriptions widely adopted. The exact status of Latanoprost (Rx or OTC) is determined by AIFA (Agenzia Italiana del Farmaco); most active ingredients in the Prostaglandin analogue class require prescription, although there are exceptions by country and formulation.
How much does Latanoprost cost in Italy? ▾
The price in EUR depends on the manufacturer (brand vs authorised generic), the strength and the pack size. Generics are typically substantially cheaper than brands and serve as the economic reference for ongoing use.
Products with Latanoprost in Italy
Latanoprost in other countries
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.