Azelastine Eye Solution

What is this medication?

AZELASTINE (a ZEL as teen) treats allergy symptoms, such as red, itchy eyes. It works by blocking histamine, a substance released by the body during an allergic reaction. It belongs to a group of medications called antihistamines.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Optivar

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Wear contact lenses
• An unusual or allergic reaction to azelastine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to become pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down the lower eyelid with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops (usually 1 drop) into the pouch. Close the eye gently. Do not blink. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medication more often than directed. If you use other eye medications, they should be used at least 10 minutes before or after this medication. Eye ointments should be applied last.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 3 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without telling your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better within 2 or 3 days.

Report any serious side effects promptly. Stop using this medication if your eyes get swollen, painful, or have a discharge, and see your care team as soon as you can.

Contact lenses may be inserted 10 minutes after putting the medication in the eye. Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red. You should not use this medication to treat irritation that is caused by contact lenses.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Change in taste
• Eye irritation or itching
• Headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Store upright between 2 and 25 degrees C (36 to 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.