GENERIC NAME: EMEDASTINE - OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION (eh-meh-DASS-teen)
BRAND NAME(S): Emadine
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Emedastine is used to relieve redness, itching, and swelling of the eyes from allergies (allergic conjunctivitis). This medication is an antihistamine. It works by blocking certain natural substances (histamines) that cause allergic symptoms. Do not use this medication to treat redness and irritation from wearing contact lenses.
HOW TO USE: To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Remove contact lenses before using this medication because it contains a preservative that can be absorbed by them. Wait at least 10 minutes after using this medication before putting the lenses back in. Do not wear your contact lenses if your eyes are red. 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 eye, usually 4 times a day, or as directed by your doctor. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Repeat these steps for your other eye if so directed. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may temporarily sting or burn your eyes for a minute or two when applied. Temporary blurred vision, headache, dry eyes, feeling as if something is in your eye, eye discomfort, staining of the eyes, a bad taste in your mouth, weakness, or unusual dreams may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Pink Eye - Read about pink eye types (viral, bacterial, allergic conjunctivitis), treatment and symptoms. Learn how it is transmitted, how long it lasts, and how to prevent it from spreading.
- Eye Allergy - Read about eye allergy causes, symptoms (red, stinging, swollen and itchy eyes) and treatments (antihistamine over the counter eye drops, medications such as Patanol).
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