DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Alcaftadine eye solution

July 17, 2018

Alcaftadine eye solution

What is this medicine?

ALCAFTADINE is an antihistamine for use in the eye. It is used to prevent itching of the eye caused by allergies.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Remove contact lenses prior to use. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down the lower eyelid with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops (usually one drop) into the pouch. Close the eye gently. Do not blink for a minute or two. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use it more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • eye pain, swelling, or increased redness

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • burning, discomfort, stinging, or tearing immediately after use

  • dry eyes

  • headache

  • itchy eyes

  • runny or stuffy nose

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without telling your doctor or health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use. Store at room temperature between 15 and 25 degrees C (59 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • wear contact lenses

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to alcaftadine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better in 2 or 3 days or if they get worse.

Report any serious side effects right away. Stop using this drug if your eyes get inflamed, painful, or have a discharge, and see your doctor or health care professional as soon as you can.

Be careful not to touch the tip of the dispensing container onto the eye, or any other surface. Serious eye infections can result from contamination of eye drops.

If you wear contact lenses, do not wear them if your eyes are red. This eye drop should not be used to treat contact lens-related irritation. If you wear soft contact lenses, you should wait at least 10 minutes after instilling the eye drops before inserting your contact lenses.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018