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Alcaftadine ophthalmic
  • Treatments
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Allergic

Alcaftadine ophthalmic

Generic name: alcaftadine ophthalmic [ al-KAF-ta-deen-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand name: Lastacaft
Dosage form: ophthalmic solution (0.25%)
Drug class:Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 11, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is alcaftadine ophthalmic?

Alcaftadine is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes.

Alcaftadine ophthalmic (for the eyes) is used to prevent itching in the eyes caused by allergies.

Alcaftadine ophthalmic should not be used to treat eye irritation caused by contact lenses.

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

Warnings

To make sure you can safely use alcaftadine ophthalmic, tell your doctor about any medical conditions that affect your eyes.

Alcaftadine ophthalmic should not be used to treat eye irritation caused by contact lenses.

Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses. Alcaftadine ophthalmic may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using alcaftadine ophthalmic before putting your contact lenses in.

Alcaftadine ophthalmic should not be used in a child younger than 2 years old.

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.

Stop using alcaftadine ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or other irritation after using the eye drops.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to alcaftadine.

To make sure you can safely use alcaftadine ophthalmic, tell your doctor about any medical conditions that affect your eyes.

Alcaftadine ophthalmic is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether alcaftadine ophthalmic 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.

Alcaftadine ophthalmic should not be used in a child younger than 2 years old.

How should I use alcaftadine ophthalmic?

Use 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.

Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses. Alcaftadine ophthalmic may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using alcaftadine ophthalmic before putting you...