GENERIC NAME: EPINASTINE - OPHTHALMIC (ep-ih-NAS-teen)

BRAND NAME(S): Elestat

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is an antihistamine used to prevent itching of the eyes caused by allergies (allergic conjunctivitis).

HOW TO USE: This medication is used in both eyes, usually twice daily; or as directed by your doctor. Use should continue during times when you may be exposed to the agents (e.g., allergens, pollens) that can cause allergic conjunctivitis, even if your eyes are not irritated or itchy. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying this medication. Wait at least 10 minutes after using the drops before wearing your lenses again. 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. Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and instill the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the inside corner of the eye and apply gentle pressure to prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. 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 10 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye.

SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, redness, or headache may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking epinastine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history. If you wear contact lenses, consult your doctor about the use of contact lenses when the eyes are red or irritated. Because your vision may be temporarily blurred or decreased after using this medication, use caution driving or performing activities that require clear vision. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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