Elestat

Generic name:epinastine ophthalmic [ EP-i-NAS-teen-off-THAL-mik ]
Drug class:Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 2, 2022.

What is Elestat?

Elestat eye drops contain epinastine, an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Elestat is used to prevent itching of the eyes caused by allergies.

Elestat should not be used to treat eye irritation or discomfort caused by wearing contact lenses.

Elestat may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Elestat is usually used only for a short time until allergy season ends.

Do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye. Elestat should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice. Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses. Elestat may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using Elestat before putting your contact lenses in. Stop using the eye drops and call your doctor at once if you have swelling, redness, crusting or drainage, severe burning, severe stinging, or other irritation after using the eye drops.

Before using Elestat

You should not use Elestat if you have a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in the eye, unless you are also using an anti-infective medicine.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Elestat will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. It is not known whether epinastine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Elestat should not be given to a child younger than 2 years old without medical advice.

How should I use Elestat?

Use Elestat eye drops exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

This medication is usually used only for a short time until allergy season ends.

Elestat is usually used twice per day. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To use the Elestat eye drops:

• Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to ...