Antazoline and xylometazoline

About antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops

These eye drops are used to relieve the eye symptoms of hayfever. 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 symptoms such as red, itchy, sticky and watery eyes, often referred to as hayfever. These eye drops relieve the eye symptoms of hayfever by blocking the action of histamine in the body.

Before using antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops

Before using antazoline and xylometazoline make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

• These eye drops are for use in adults and children over 12 years of age.

How to use antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Unless you have been told otherwise by your doctor, use these eye drops two or three times a day.

1. Wash your hands well before use
2. Remove the outer cap.
3. Tilt the head back and pull the lower lid of the eye down to form a pocket.
4. Hold the container between the thumb and middle finger of the other hand, turn the container upside down near to the eye, try not to touch the eye.
5. Apply enough pressure to the container to release one drop.
6. Close the eye and keep it closed for a minute or two. If you think that you have missed the eye, then insert another drop.
7. Repeat in the other eye if you have been instructed to use this preparation in both eyes.
8. Replace the outer cap on the container, trying not to touch the applicator tip with any surface, including the eye or fingers.
9. Wash your hands.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If your symptoms do not improve within three days, or if they become worse, stop using these eye drops and speak to your doctor or pharmacist about an alternative preparation.
• Do not use these eye drops for more than 7 days.
• If you are using any other eye drops or ointments, leave at least five minutes between each one.
• Do not wear contact lenses while you are being treated with this preparation.

Can antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops cause problems?

These eye drops may cause drowsiness and blurred vision. Make sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly.

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

How to store antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Do not store or use these eye drops for longer than 4 weeks once they have been opened.

Important information about all medicines