Azelastine 0.05% eyedrops

What is this medicine?

AZELASTINE is an antihistamine. It is used in the eye to treat itching of eyes caused by hay fever or other allergies.

What should my health care professional know before I take this medicine?

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?

This medicine is only for use in the eye. Do not take by mouth.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. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medication in children. 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 applied 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 it with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of this medicine, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other eye products without telling your doctor or health care professional. Give your health care provider 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 should I watch for while taking this medicine?

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.

What side effects may I notice from this medicine?

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.

Where can I keep my medicine?

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.