epinastine 0.05 % eye drops

Generic name:
Epinastine - ophthalmic

Pronunciation
(EP-i-NAS-teen)

Brand name(s)
Elestat

This medication is an antihistamine used to prevent itching of the eyes caused by allergies (allergic conjunctivitis).

Use this medication in both eyes as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily. Use should continue during times when you may be exposed to the agents (such as allergens, pollens) that can cause allergies, even if your eyes are not irritated or itchy.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying this medication. Wait at least 10 minutes after using the drops before wearing your lenses again.

To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.

Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and instill the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the inside corner of the eye and apply gentle pressure to prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye.

Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.

If you are using another kind of eye medication (such as drops or ointments), wait at least 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye.

Wait several minutes for your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.

Burning/redness of the eye or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:

• rash
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US -

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Before using epinastine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

If you wear contact lenses, consult your doctor about the use of contact lenses when the eyes are red or irritated.

After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs clear vision until you can do it safely.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call 1-844-764-7669.

Do not share this medication with others.

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.