Ophthalmic antihistamine

Alcaftadine (ألكافتادين)

Alcaftadine is an antihistamine eye drop that relieves itching caused by allergic conjunctivitis. It does not treat an eye infection or contact-lens irritation.

What it is used for

  • Preventing itchy eyes caused by pollen, animal dander and other allergens
  • Relieving allergic-conjunctivitis symptoms when there are no signs of infection or another eye disorder

How it is used

  • Wash your hands and remove contact lenses, then tilt your head, pull down the lower lid and apply the drop as directed without touching the eye or lashes with the tip
  • Close the eye, gently press its corner beside the nose, then close the bottle firmly
  • Wait for the period stated in the leaflet before replacing lenses, and do not wear them while the eye is red
  • If using another eye product, leave the interval advised by your doctor or pharmacist

Possible side effects

  • Temporary mild stinging, burning or eye irritation
  • Eye redness or itching
  • Headache or sore throat in some people
  • Temporary blurred vision after applying the drop

Who should not use it

  • Allergy to alcaftadine or any ingredient in the drops

Before and while using it

  • Stop and seek medical advice for eye pain, a vision change, increased redness, or symptoms that persist or worsen
  • Do not use it for contact-lens irritation or place lenses on a red eye
  • Do not touch the bottle tip to any surface or share the drops, to avoid infection or eye injury
  • Get urgent care for facial swelling, difficulty breathing or a severe allergic reaction

Medicine interactions

  • No important medicine interactions are known, but tell your doctor or pharmacist about all eye products
  • Separate it from other drops or ointments as directed so it is not washed out of the eye

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding because information is limited

How to store it

  • Keep the bottle closed and store as the leaflet directs; do not use the solution if it changes colour or becomes cloudy

Get medical help straight away if

  • Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
  • You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
  • A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Questions about this medicine?

Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.

Source: Standard international medicine references

This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.