Azelastine (Into the eye)

Introduction:

Azelastine (a-ZEL-as-teen)

Treats itching of the eye caused by allergies.

Brand Name(s):

Optivar

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Drop

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them before putting the drops in your eyes. Wait at least 10 minutes after using this medicine before putting your contacts back in. You should only wear contact lenses if your eyes are not red.
• Wash your hands before and after using the medicine.
• Lie down or tilt your head back. With your index finger, pull down the lower lid of your eye to form a pocket.
• Hold the dropper close to your eye with the other hand. Drop the correct number of drops into the pocket made between your lower lid and eyeball.
• Gently close your eyes. Place your index finger over the inner corner of your eye for 1 minute.
• Do not rinse or wipe the dropper or allow it to touch anything, including your eye. Put the cap on the bottle right away.
• Never share your medicine with anyone.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Keep the bottle upright when you are not using it.
• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red.
• This medicine may cause your vision to be blurred for a short time. Do not drive or do other things that require you to see well until you know how you react to this medicine.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Increased redness, pain, or discharge in eyes
• Trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Bitter taste in mouth
• Burning or stinging of eye when putting the drops in
• Headache

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor: