Generic
Alcaftadine
8 brands available in the market
At a glance
H1 receptor antagonist and mast cell stabilizer ophthalmic solution for the prevention of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.
Description
Alcaftadine ophthalmic solution is a potent histamine H1 receptor antagonist and mast cell stabilizer indicated for the prevention and relief of ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.
Indications
Indicated for the prevention and relief of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.
Therapeutic class
Ophthalmic Anti-allergic preparations
Pharmacological class
Histamine H1/H2/H4 Receptor Antagonist & Mast Cell Stabilizer
Pharmacology
Alcaftadine inhibits histamine release from mast cells and blocks H1, H2, and H4 receptors, providing rapid relief from ocular itching and preventing late-phase inflammatory responses in allergic conjunctivitis.
Mechanism of action
Combines histamine H1 receptor antagonism and mast cell stabilization to inhibit the release of allergic and inflammatory mediators.
Dosage
Adults and pediatric patients 2 years of age and older: Instill one drop in each affected eye once daily.
Administration
For topical ophthalmic use only. Do not touch dropper tip to any surface. Remove contact lenses prior to instillation and reinsert after 10 minutes. Space other ophthalmic products by at least 5 minutes.
Missed dose
Apply as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the time for the next scheduled dose.
Side effects
Most common side effects include eye irritation, burning/stinging upon instillation, ocular redness, eye pruritus, nasopharyngitis, and headache.
Precautions & warnings
Avoid dropper contamination. Patients should not wear contact lenses if the eye is red. Not for contact lens-related irritation.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Alcaftadine or any component of the formulation.
Drug interactions
No specific ophthalmic drug interactions reported; separate administration of other eye drops by at least 5 minutes.
Food interactions
No food interactions relevant for topical ophthalmic route.
Use in pregnancy
FDA Pregnancy Category B. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Pregnancy Category: B — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Unknown whether excreted in human milk. Exercise caution when administering to nursing mothers.
Pediatric use
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under 2 years of age have not been established.
Geriatric use
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness observed in elderly subjects compared to younger patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
No dosage adjustments required due to minimal systemic absorption.
Overdose effects
Flushing the eye with saline or water is recommended in case of topical overdose.
Storage conditions
Store below 25°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Alcaftadine (C19H21N3O)