Prostaglandin analogs are synthetic compounds that mimic the effects of natural prostaglandins, which are lipid compounds involved in various physiological processes. These analogs are commonly used in medicine to treat conditions such as glaucoma, where they help lower intraocular pressure by increasing the outflow of fluid from the eye. In addition to their use in ophthalmology, prostaglandin analogs are also employed in obstetrics to induce labor and manage certain types of pain. They work by binding to specific receptors in the body, leading to various biological responses, including inflammation and smooth muscle contraction.