Optivar
Active Ingredients: Azelastine Eyedrops
Other Names: Optivar
Drug Class: Ophthalmic Antihistamines
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: No
Product Images & Descriptions: 
Pronunciation: 
What is/are Optivar?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?
What is/are Optivar?
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AZELASTINE is an antihistamine. It is used in the eye to treat itching of eyes caused by hay fever or other allergies.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
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They need to know if you have any of these conditions: - wear contact lenses
- an unusual or allergic reaction to azelastine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to become pregnant
- breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
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This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash hands before and after use. Tilt the head back slightly and pull down the lower eyelid with your index finger to form a pouch. Try not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye, fingertips, or any other surface. Squeeze the prescribed number of drops (usually 1 drop) into the pouch. Close the eye gently. Do not blink. Use your doses at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed. If you use other eye medicines, they should be used at least 10 minutes before or after this medicine. Eye ointments should be applied last.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 3 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
Note: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
What if I miss a dose?
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If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medicine?
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Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without telling your doctor or health care professional.
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: - allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):- bitter taste
- blurred vision
- eye pain, burning or stinging
- fatigue
- headache
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
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Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better within 2 or 3 days.
Report any serious side effects promptly. Stop using this medicine if your eyes get swollen, painful, or have a discharge, and see your doctor or health care professional as soon as you can.
Contact lenses may be inserted 10 minutes after putting the medicine in the eye. Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red. You should not use this medicine to treat irritation that is caused by contact lenses.
Where should I keep this medicine?
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Keep out of the reach of children.
Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Store upright between 2 and 25 degrees C (36 to 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.
Last Updated:May 31, 2007 COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company |
