What is Alcaftadine?
Alcaftadine is an antihistamine that works by inhibiting the effects of the body's natural chemical histamine. Some of the symptoms that histamine produces are itchy or watery eyes. The drug is used for the prevention of itching in the eyes caused due to allergies. But this drug should not be used for the treatment of eye irritation caused due to eye lenses. Also, alcaftadine is an H1 histamine receptor antagonist that is used to treat itching caused by allergic conjunctivitis.
Alcaftadine Uses
This drug is used to prevent allergies from causing scratching in the eyes. It functions by inhibiting the action of a natural product called histamine, which triggers allergic symptoms. This medicine should not be used to treat red or irritated eyes caused by contact lenses. If this happens, contact your doctor for more guidance. Alcaftadine eye drops are used for the prevention of itching of the eye that is caused by a condition called allergic conjunctivitis. This works by preventing the effects of certain inflammatory substances that are produced by cells in the eyes and sometimes can cause allergic reactions.
Alcaftadine Side Effects
Some of the common & major side effects of Alcaftadine are:
- Mild or temporary burning sensation of eyes
- Eye redness or itching
- Stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Flu symptoms
- Headache
Alcaftadine can cause some serious side effects and can lead to some serious health problems. Talk with your doctor if you are having any serious problems.
Precautions
Before using Alcaftadine talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications related to it. The drug may contain some inactive ingredients which will cause serious allergic reactions or some other serious problems. Before using the drug, talk with your doctor if you are having any medical history such as eye irritation, eye infection and if you are using contact lenses. After using the drug for some time the vision can be blurred. If you are getting any eye infection or eye injury talk with your doctor immediately.
How to use Alcaftadine?
Ophthalmic alcaftadine is administered as a solution (liquid) into the eye. It is normally injected once a day into the affected eye. Apply these eye drops once a day in both eyes as directed by the doctor. Wash the hands before using eye drops. Avoid contamination and don’t touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other sensitive surface.
Contact lenses can absorb the preservative in this product. Remove your contact lenses when using this prescription and hold them out of your eyes for at least 10 minutes after each dose if you use them. If your eyes are red, avoid using contact lenses. To make a pouch, tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid. As instructed by your doctor, put one drop into the pouch while holding the dropper directly over your eye. Close your eyes softly and put one finger at the corner of your eye as you look downward (near the nose). Before opening your eyes, apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes. This will stop the drug from being drained.
Missed Dose
As soon as you remember, use the missing dose. If it’s time for the next dose, skip the skipped dose and return to the daily dosing schedule. To make up for a missed dose, do not offer a double dose.
Over Dose
Overdose of an eye drop can lead to severe side effects like headache, eye irritation and dry eyes. Talk with your doctor immediately if you think you have used too much of this medicine.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
During pregnancy, if you are using this drug then talk with your doctor immediately. The drug should be used if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Alcaftadine eye drop doesn’t have any side effects while breastfeeding. But before using any medication talk with your doctor immediately.
Storage
Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine may cause some harmful effects. The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children’s reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Alcaftadine vs Olopatadine
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| Alcaftadine is an antihistamine that works by inhibiting the effects of the body's natural chemical histamine. Some of the symptoms that histamine produces are itchy or watery eyes. | Olopatadine is a prescription drug that comes in the form of ophthalmic solutions. The drug is available in various brand-name drugs called pazeo, patanol and pataday. |
| This drug is used to prevent allergies from causing scratching in the eyes. It functions by inhibiting the action of a natural product called histamine, which triggers allergic symptoms. | Olopatadine ophthalmic (eye) drops are used to treat allergic conjunctivitis, which causes inflammation in the eyes (pink eye) |
Some of the common & major side effects of Alcaftadine are:
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Some of the common and major side effects of Olopatadine are:
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