Introduction About ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION

ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION is used to manage eye itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. It contains Alcaftadine, which belongs to the group of medicines called Ocular antihistamines and decongestants. It blocks the effects of certain chemicals (Ex. histamines) in the body, which are responsible for triggering the allergic response. Therefore, when administered to the eyes, it manages the onset of allergic reactions such as eye itching, irritation, or inflammation.

Do not use ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION while wearing soft contact lenses. Make sure to remove them before applying ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION and wait for at least 10 minutes before reinsertion. ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION should be used in pregnant women only if it is considered necessary by your physician.

The use of ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION can make you feel drowsy, so be cautious while you perform tasks that require complete concentration, such as driving or handling heavy tools or machines. Contact your doctor if your eye condition worsens or does not improve after 3 days of use.

The most common side effects of using ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION are eye redness, itching, irritation, burning, and/or stinging sensations upon use. Contact your doctor if any of them bother you.

Uses Of ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION

• It is used to manage eye itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis

How ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION Works

ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION blocks the effects of certain chemicals (Ex. histamines) in the body that are responsible for triggering the allergic response. As a result, when applied topically to the eyes, it manages the onset of allergic reactions such as eye itching, irritation, or inflammation.

How to use ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION

Apply ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION as advised by your doctor. It is for ophthalmic use only. Wash your hands before application. Tilt your head slightly backwards and place the tip of the container close to your eyes. Gently pull your lower eyelid and instill a few drops of medicine as directed by your physician. Close your eyes and gently press the inner corner of your eye for 2 minutes. Repeat the same in the other eye if required.

Do not touch the tip of the container with your eyes, eyelids, or areas around your eyes or fingers to avoid contamination. If you wear soft contact lenses, make sure to remove them before using ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION and wait for at least 10 minutes before reinsertion. Your doctor will decide the correct dose and duration for you depending on your age, body weight, and health condition.

Side Effects Of ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION

How To Manage Side Effects

Eye irritation Or Itching

Place an ice pack on your eyes. Wash your eyes with cold water. Avoid watching direct light sources. Do not strain your eyes too much. Try to close your eyes and relax. If you experience intolerable eye pain with itching, irritation, or redness, contact your doctor immediately.

Headache

Ensure adequate fluid intake, as dehydration can cause headaches. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, aiming for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Eat balanced meals at regular intervals to avoid blood sugar fluctuations that can trigger headaches. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to reduce stress levels. Engage in regular physical exercise, which can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Apply a cold pack or warm compress to the forehead or neck to alleviate pain.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Consult your doctor

ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION should be used in pregnant women only if it is considered necessary by your physician. Therefore, consult your doctor before using.

Breastfeeding

Consult your doctor

There is no proper information regarding the use of ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION among breastfeeding women. Consult your doctor before using.

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Do not drive or operate heavy tools or machines if you experience drowsiness or blurred vision after using ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not use ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION if you are allergic to Alcaftadine.

Use In Pediatrics

Consult your doctor

ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION should be used in children (aged above 3 years) only if prescribed by your physician. The safety and effectiveness of ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION in children aged below 2 years have not been established. Therefore, consult your doctor before using.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION should be used with caution with elderly patients. Consult your doctor before using.

Interactions

A. Drug-Drug interactions:

• Antidepressants (Ex. amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and doxepin)
• Other antihistamines (Ex. diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine)
• Nutritional supplements
• Herbal products

Overdosage:

If you or anyone else accidentally used more of ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION, consult your doctor immediately or visit the nearby hospital.

Synopsis

More Information

FAQs About ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION

Q: Can ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION reduce itching in the eyes?

A: Yes. ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION is used to reduce eye itching associated with allergic eye conditions. It contains Alcaftadine, which is an antihistamine. It blocks the effects of certain chemicals in the body that are responsible for triggering the allergic response.

Q: How does ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION work?

A: ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION blocks the effects of certain chemicals (Ex. histamines) in the body that are responsible for triggering the allergic response. As a result, when applied topically to the eyes, it manages the onset of allergic reactions such as eye itching, irritation, or inflammation.

Q: What are the side effects of using ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION?

A: The most common side effects of using ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION are eye redness, itching, irritation, burning, and/or stinging sensations upon use. Contact your doctor if any of them bother you.

Q: Can ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION cause blurred vision?

A: Yes. ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION can cause blurred vision in some individuals after application. Avoid driving or going outside on your own if you experience blurred vision. Close your eyes for some time until your vision gets clear. Contact your doctor if this symptom bothers you.

Q: How do I use ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION?

A: Apply ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION as advised by your doctor. It is for ophthalmic use only. Wash your hands before application. Tilt your head slightly backwards and place the tip of the container close to your eyes. Gently pull the lower eyelid and instill a few drops of medicine as directed by your physician. Close your eyes and gently press the inner corner of your eye for 2 minutes. Repeat the same in the other eye if required. Do not use this medicine while wearing soft contact lenses.

Q: What should I know before using ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION?

A: Before using ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION, inform your doctor if you are allergic to Alcaftadine or any of the ingredients present in the medicine. Inform your doctor if you have any other eye problems apart from conjunctivitis. Do not use this medicine while wearing soft contact lenses. Make sure to remove them before applying ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION and wait for at least 10 minutes before reinsertion. ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION can make you feel drowsy, so be cautious while you perform tasks that require complete concentration, such as driving or handling heavy tools or machines. Contact your doctor if your eye condition worsens or does not improve after 3 days of use.

Q: Is ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION safe?

A: Yes. ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION is generally safe and does not cause any major side effects. It can cause eye discomfort, redness or irritation, blurred vision, or drowsiness in some individuals. However, they can be managed easily with or without medical interventions. But if you experience severe, intolerable eye pain with redness, contact your doctor immediately.

Q: Can ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION be used to manage contact lens-related irritation?

A: No. ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION is only used to manage allergy-related eye irritation. Do not use ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION to manage contact lens-related irritation. If you are concerned about irritation caused by wearing contact lenses, contact your doctor for advice.

Q: Can ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION be used in pregnant women?

A: ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION should be used in pregnant women only if it is considered necessary by the physician. Your doctor will determine the risk-benefit ratio of this medicine and prescribe it to you based on your health requirements. Therefore, consult your doctor before using.

Q: What are the storage and handling conditions for ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION?

A: ALCATOP OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION must be stored at room temperature. Keep it protected from light. Do not use this medicine for more than 4 weeks after opening.

References

1. Diane T. Adamczyk and Siret D. Jaanus. Antiallergy Drugs and Decongestants. Topical H1 Antihistamines. Clinical Ocular Pharmacology by Jimmy D. Bartlett and Siret D Jaanus. Fifth Edition. 2008. Page – 254-255.

2. Jack V Greiner, Kimberly Edwards-Swanson and Avner Ingerman. Evaluation of alcaftadine 0.25% ophthalmic solution in acute allergic conjunctivitis at 15 minutes and 16 hours after instillation versus placebo and olopatadine 0.1%. NIH. National Library of Medicine. National Center for Biotechnology Information. PubMed Central. Clinical Ophthalmology. January 2011. [Accessed on 12th June 2024] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3037035/

3. Allergan. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. [Revised in June 2020] [Accessed on 12th June 2024] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/022134s007lbl.pdf

4. Alcaftadine 0.25% eye drops. Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. [Revised in April 2017] [Accessed on 12th June 2024] https://www.hsa.gov.sg/docs/default-source/announcements/prescription-only-medicines-(pom)/alcaftadine-eye-drops-pil-20-05-2017.pdf

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