Alcaftadine

For the prevention of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. (Allergic conjunctivitis;)

Alcaftadine ophthalmic (eye) drops is used to prevent itching of the eye caused by a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis (pink eye). It works by preventing the effects of certain inflammatory substances, which are produced by cells in your eyes and sometimes cause allergic reactions.

Alcaftadine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Do not use Alcaftadine drops to treat contact lens irritation. Redness due to wearing contact lenses may not be caused by allergies. Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red. If redness continues, talk to your health care provider.
• Do not use Alcaftadine drops for other eye problems without first checking with your health care provider.
• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Alcaftadine drops while you are pregnant. It is not known if Alcaftadine drops is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Alcaftadine drops, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.

Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis

Instill one drop in each eye once a day

Comments:

-If more than 1 topical ophthalmic drug is being administered, each one should be used at least 5 minutes apart.

Use: Prevention of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis

Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis

2 years and older:

Instill one drop in each eye once a day

Comments:

-If more than 1 topical ophthalmic drug is being administered, each one should be used at least 5 minutes apart.

Use: Prevention of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Precautions

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 2 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Use Alcaftadine drops as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.

• Alcaftadine drops is only for the eye. Do not get it in your nose or mouth.
• Do NOT use Alcaftadine drops in your eyes while you are wearing contact lenses. Soft contact lenses may absorb a chemical in Alcaftadine drops. Wait 10 minutes after you use Alcaftadine drops before you put your contacts back in. Only put your contact lenses back in if your eyes are not red.
• To use Alcaftadine drops in the eye, first, wash your hands. Tilt your head back. Using your index finger, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to form a pouch. Drop the medicine into the pouch and gently close your eyes. Immediately use your finger to apply pressure to the inside corner of the eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Do not blink. Remove excess medicine around your eye with a clean, dry tissue, being careful not to touch your eye. Wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.
• To prevent germs from contaminating your medicine, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface, including the eye. Keep the container tightly closed when not in use.
• If you are using more than 1 medicine in your eyes, space each eye medicine by 5 minutes.
• Use Alcaftadine drops on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it.
• If you miss a dose of Alcaftadine drops, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not use 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Alcaftadine drops.

See also:
What are the possible side effects of Alcaftadine?

Applies to Alcaftadine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution

In addition to its needed effects, some unwanted effects may be caused by Alcaftadine ophthalmic. In the event that any of these side effects do occur, they may require medical attention.

Major Side Effects

You should check with your doctor immediately if any of these side effects occur when taking Alcaftadine ophthalmic:

Less common:

• Burning or stinging sensation in the eye
• itching of the eyes
• red, sore eyes

Minor Side Effects

Some of the side effects that can occur with Alcaftadine ophthalmic may not need medical attention. As your body adjusts to the medicine during treatment these side effects may go away. Your health care professional may also be able to tell you about ways to reduce or prevent some of these side effects. If any of the following side effects continue, are bothersome or if you have any questions about them, check with your health care professional:

Less common:

• Chills
• cough
• diarrhea
• fever
• general feeling of discomfort or illness
• headache
• joint pain
• loss of appetite
• muscle aches and pains
• nausea
• runny nose
• shivering
• sore throat
• stuffy or runny nose
• sweating
• trouble sleeping
• unusual tiredness or weakness
• vomiting

Alcaftadine is a H1 histamine receptor antagonist indicated for the prevention of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. This drug was approved in July 2010.