Azelastine

• This medication is used to treat itching eyes caused by allergies (allergic conjunctivitis).
• Azelastine belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines. It works by blocking certain natural substances called histamines that are responsible for allergic symptoms.
• Do not use this medication to treat redness and irritation caused by wearing contact lenses.

• Use this medication in the affected eye(s) as directed by your medical provider, usually twice daily.
• Wash your hands before applying eye drops. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.

• If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them before using eye drops and use the following guidelines:

  • Wait at least 10 minutes before replacing your contact lenses.
  • Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch.
  • Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch.
  • Look downward, gently close your eyes and place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose).
  • Apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes before opening your eyes to prevent the medication from draining out.
  • Try not to blink or rub your eye.
  • Repeat these steps if your dose is for more than one drop. If directed to use this medication in both eyes, repeat these steps for your other 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 5 minutes before applying it. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
• Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day.
• Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.
• Tell your medical provider if you do not get better or if your condition gets worse.

• This medication may temporarily sting or burn your eyes for a minute or two after use. Temporary blurred vision, headache or a bitter taste in your mouth may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your medical provider or pharmacist right away.
• Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your medical provider has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not experience serious side effects. Tell your medical provider right away if you experience any serious side effects including eye pain.

• 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 or 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, request a callback for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

• Before using Azelastine, tell your medical provider or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or have any other allergies.
• This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Go to your patient dashboard and request a callback for more details.
• Before using this medication, tell your medical provider or pharmacist your medical history.
• After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery or do any activity that requires clear vision until you can do it safely.
• Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products.
• During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when there is a clear need. Discuss the risks and benefits with your medical provider.
• It is unknown whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your medical provider 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 medical provider and pharmacist.
• Do not start, stop or change the dosage of any medicines without your medical provider's approval.

This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and is experiencing serious symptoms–such as passing out or trouble breathing–call 911. If symptoms from taking this medication are less severe, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away.

• Do not share this medication with others.
• Ask your medical provider for ways to reduce your exposure to substances–such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold and smoke–that can worsen allergy symptoms.

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.

• Keep the bottle upright and tightly closed. Different brands of this medication have different storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store your brand, or ask your pharmacist.
• 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 for more details.