Lastacaft Eye Drops

(Alcaftadine)

The active ingredient in Lastacaft is alcaftadine. These eye allergy itch relief drops are a fast-acting, antihistamine eye drop that targets histamine-related eye allergy symptoms. Its mechanism of action involves blocking histamine H1 receptors in the eye. This prevents the release of histamine and stops the allergic response that causes itchy eyes from allergens like pollen, pet dander, and grass.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Lastacaft. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Lastacaft:

• Lastacaft is used as an ophthalmic solution applied directly to the eyes.
• The usual dose is one drop in each affected eye once daily.
• Wash your hands before using the eye drops.
• Remove contact lenses before applying Lastacaft.
• Wait at least 10 minutes before reinserting contact lenses after dosing.
• Avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface, including the eye, to reduce the risk of contamination.
• If you are using other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between products.
• Lastacaft is approved for adults and children 2 years of age and older.
• Use the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Some mild or common side effects of Lastacaft include:

• Mild burning or stinging in the eyes.
• Eye irritation or redness of the eye.
• Headache.
• Dry eyes.
• Temporary blurred vision after application.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Lastacaft. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Eye pain that does not improve.
• Severe redness or swelling of the eye or eyelid.
• Signs of an allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.
• Vision changes that persist.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Lastacaft. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Lastacaft, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Eye infections or eye injuries.
• A history of allergic reactions to eye drops.
• Sensitivity to benzalkonium chloride or other preservatives.
• Vision problems not related to allergies.
• Regular contact lens use.

Lastacaft should not be used in individuals with known hypersensitivity to alcaftadine or any inactive ingredients in the formulation, which include benzalkonium chloride, edetate disodium, sodium phosphate, monobasic, sodium chloride, and sodium hydroxide.

Lastacaft begins relieving itchy eyes quickly, with itch relief reported within minutes after dosing in clinical studies. Relief can last up to 24 hours with once-daily use.

When Lastacaft is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Other ophthalmic solutions, which may dilute the effect if applied too closely together.
• Oral antihistamines.

Lastacaft is available as an 0.25% ophthalmic solution in a 0.17 fl oz (5 mL) multi-dose bottle.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Lastacaft is manufactured by Allergan, now part of AbbVie.

Yes, generic alcaftadine ophthalmic solution is available.

Lastacaft can be stopped at any time without tapering. If symptoms return or worsen after stopping, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

There are limited data on the use of alcaftadine in pregnant women. Lastacaft should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and if the potential benefit outweighs any possible risk. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.

It is not known whether alcaftadine passes into human breast milk. Because systemic absorption from eye drops is low, the risk to a breastfed infant is expected to be minimal. Breastfeeding individuals should discuss use with their healthcare provider to determine the best approach.