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Azelastine eye drops

  • Azelastine eye drops are used for relieving the eye symptoms of allergies.
  • They are usually used twice each day, although they can be used up to four times a day for severe symptoms.
  • Azelastine eye drops are not recommended for children under four years old.

About azelastine eye drops

Type of medicineAntihistamine eye drops
Used forRelieving the eye symptoms of seasonal allergies (such as hayfever) and other allergies
Also calledOptilast®
Available asEye drops

Exposure to irritants such as plant pollens, pet fur, or pollution can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine can cause allergic conjunctivitis, symptoms of which are red, itchy and watery eyes.

Azelastine eye drops relieve these eye symptoms by blocking the action of histamine in the eye.

Before using azelastine eye drops

Before using azelastine eye drops make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you wear contact lenses.
  • if you have ever had an allergic reaction to these or to any other eye drops.

How to use azelastine eye drops

  • Use these eye drops exactly as your doctor has told you to. Read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet that comes with the drops before you start to use them.
  • Azelastine drops are usually used twice a day. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may suggest using them up to four times daily.
  • Do not use azelastine eye drops for a period of more than six weeks.
  • If you forget to use the drops, use them as soon as you remember and then continue as before.

How to use azelastine eye drops:

  1. Wash your hands well before use.
  2. Remove the cap.
  3. Tilt your head back a little and pull the lower lid of your eye down to form a pocket.
  4. Hold the bottle upside down near to your eye. Try not to touch your eye.
  5. Apply enough pressure to the bottle to release one drop into your eye. If you think that the drop missed your eye, then insert another drop.
  6. Close your eye for a minute or two, and press gently on the side of your nose where the corner of your eye meets your nose.
  7. Repeat the process above in your other eye.
  8. Replace the cap.
  9. Wash your hands.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.
  • If you are using any other eye drops or ointments, leave at least five minutes between each one.
  • These eye drops are for you. Never give them to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • You should not wear contact lenses while you are using azelastine eye drops.

Can azelastine eye drops cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the eye drops, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Possible side-effectsWhat can I do if I experience this
Irritation of the eyeThis should soon disappear as your eyes adjust to the new drops
A bitter taste in the mouthThis should soon disappear. It may help to have a soft drink
Blurred visionThis usually disappears within a few minutes. Do not drive or use machinery unless your vision is clear

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to these eye drops, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store azelastine eye drops

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • Eye drops only keep for 4 weeks once opened. After this time make sure you have a fresh supply.

Important information about all medicines


  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are using. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to use with your other medicines.
  • Before using this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking or using any medicine.
  • Never use more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that someone has swallowed these drops, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are using.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • Manufacturer's PIL, Optilast® 0.5 mg/ml Eye Drops, Meda Pharmaceuticals, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated July 2006, accessed October 2010.
  • British National Formulary; 59th Edition (March 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2010DocID: 3769DocRef: dils3770Last Reviewed: 21 Oct 2010Version: 23
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