uses
What is alcaftadine used for?Alcaftadine is commonly used to prevent itchy eyes from conjunctivitis due to allergies. Allergic conjunctivitis is a condition where part of your eye is inflamed (red and itchy) from exposure to things like pollen, ragweed, grass, dust, or animal hair and dander. Alcaftadine may also be used for other conditions as determined by your health care provider.How does alcaftadine work (mechanism of action)?Alcaftadine is an antihistamine. It blocks the release of histamines from mast cells, which are involved in the allergic response. Antihistamines reduce or block histamines to help prevent itchy eyes.How is alcaftadine supplied (dosage forms)?Brands and other namesLastacaftDosage forms and strengths0.25% ophthalmic solution (eye drops)How should I store alcaftadine?Alcaftadine should be stored at room temperature, between 59 F and 77 F (15 C and 25 C).
how to use
eye drop
drug interactions
Does alcaftadine interact with foods or drinks?There are no known interactions between alcaftadine and foods or drinks.There are no known interactions between alcaftadine and alcohol.Does alcaftadine interact with other medicines (drug interactions)?There are no known interactions between alcaftadine and other medicines. Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.
side effects
What are the most common side effects of alcaftadine?The most common side effects of alcaftadine are listed below. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.Eye irritationEye burning and stingingEye rednessEye itchingThere may be other side effects of alcaftadine that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a medicine. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.fda.gov/medwatch or by calling 800-FDA-1088 (800-332-1088). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.What are the serious side effects of alcaftadine?While less common, the most serious side effects of alcaftadine are described below, along with what to do if they happen.Severe Allergic Reactions. Alcaftadine may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using alcaftadine and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.Breathing problems or wheezingRacing heartFever or general ill feelingSwollen lymph nodesSwelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throatTrouble swallowing or throat tightnessItching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hivesNausea or vomitingDizziness, feeling lightheaded, or faintingStomach crampsJoint painWorsening Eye Symptoms. If you have any of the following symptoms, stop using alcaftadine and contact your health care provider right away.Eye painBlurry vision or other changes in visionIncreased redness of the eyeItching that gets worse or lasts more than 72 hours
overdose and misseddose
What should I do if I accidentally use too much alcaftadine?If you or someone else has used too much alcaftadine, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.What should I do if I miss a dose of alcaftadine?If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only use the next dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
warnings and Precautions
Who should not use alcaftadine?Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use alcaftadine.LastacaftAlcaftadineAny of the ingredients in the specific product dispensedYour pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific alcaftadine products they stock.What should I know about alcaftadine before using it?Keep alcaftadine out of the reach of children.Alcaftadine should only be applied to the surface of the eye. Do not touch the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface, including your finger. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.Do not use alcaftadine for eye irritation caused by contact lenses. Do not wear contact lenses if your eye is red.The preservative in alcaftadine eye drops can be absorbed by soft contact lenses. If you wear soft contact lenses, wait at least ten minutes after using alcaftadine before you put your contact lenses in your eyes.If you are using other eye drops while using alcaftadine, wait at least five minutes between each product. What should I tell my health care provider before using alcaftadine?Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if alcaftadine is right for you.In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.Pregnancy. It is not known if or how alcaftadine could affect pregnancy or harm an unborn baby. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.Breastfeeding. It is not known if alcaftadine passes into breast milk. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.
about
Alcaftadine is an eye drop used to prevent eye itching caused by allergies. The most common side effects of alcaftadine are eye irritation, burning/stinging, redness, and itching. Contact your health care provider if your eye symptoms seem to be getting worse instead of better while using alcaftadine.Â