Travatan Ophthalmic Solution (travoprost) is a prescription eye drop specifically used to manage and reduce elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. These conditions are characterized by increased pressure within the eye, which can lead to optic nerve damage and potentially result in vision loss if not properly managed.

The medication belongs to a class of drugs known as prostaglandin analogs. Travatan reduces pressure in the eye by mimicking the action of a naturally occurring prostaglandin. Prostaglandins are a group of natural body chemicals found in many places in the body. In the eye, they increase the drainage of fluid out of the aqueous humor, which fills the front part of the eye behind the cornea. The drain, located in an area called the drainage angle, removes the fluid from the eye. This drainage helps keep the pressure inside the eye stable, which is important for maintaining healthy vision. By enhancing the drainage of this fluid, Travatan effectively lowers the intraocular pressure, helping to prevent damage to the optic nerve.

Please note that the newer version of Travatan, called Travatan Z, is available in some countries, but not yet in Israel. Travatan Z is a new formulation that replaces the preservative benzalkonium chloride (BAK) from the existing Travatan solution with SOFZIA, an ionic-buffered preservative system. The active ingredient remains the same.