Latisse recommended for eyelash enhancement

Latisse (bimatoprost solution 0.03%) (Allergan, Inc) has been recommended for FDA approval as a treatment for hypertrichosis of the eyelashes. Latisse was developed from Allergan's Lumigan, approved in 2001 for the treatment of glaucoma.

In trials of Latisse, adverse events - which were local, temporary and mild - disappeared following cessation of treatment.

If approved, Latisse would be the first FDA-approved pharmaceutical product to enhance the length, thickness and darkness of eyelashes. The FDA also recommended Phase IV testing of Latisse in patient populations including patients with hair loss due to chemotherapy.

If approved, Allergan plans to launch Latisse on the market as a prescription product in 2009.