This medication is used to prevent itching of the eyes due to allergies. Alcaftadine is an antihistamine. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that causes allergic symptoms.
Do not use this medication to treat red or irritated eyes due to wearing contact lenses. Contact your doctor for further instructions if this occurs.
How to Use This Medication
Apply this medication in both eyes as directed by your doctor, usually once a day.
Wash your hands before each use. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.
The preservative in this product may be absorbed by contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication and keep them out of your eyes for at least 10 minutes after each dose. Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red.
Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch as directed by your doctor. Look downward, gently close your eyes, and place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose). Apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes before opening your eyes. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink or rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye.
Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (for example, other drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
Do not use this product if it becomes contaminated (for example, drops turn a dark color). Using contaminated eye medication can cause infection, serious damage to the eye, and loss of vision. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in a few days or if it worsens.
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Information expires June 2016.