Alaway

Alaway is used to temporarily relieve itching of the eye caused by allergic conjunctivitis.

It works by acting on mast cells to prevent them from releasing substances that cause the allergic reaction.

This medication is available both over the counter and with your doctor’s prescription.

This product is available in the following forms:

• Solution

As with all medicines, the risks of using must be compared to how much it will help you. This is a decision that you and your doctor will make together.

For this medication, there are many things that need to be considered:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to Doxorubicin or to any other medications. It is also important to inform your doctor of any non-medicine allergies such as foods, dyes, preservatives or animals.
• Pediatric: No appropriate studies have been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of this medication in children. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
• Geriatric: No appropriate studies have been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of this medication in the elderly. Safety and efficacy have not been established.
• Pregnancy: This medication is listed as Pregnancy Category C. This means that animal studies have shown an adverse effect and no studies have been performed on pregnant women OR there are no adequate studies on pregnant animals and pregnant women.
• Breastfeeding: There are no up-to-date studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication while breastfeeding. Weigh the potential risks with the benefits before taking this medication while breastfeeding. Certain medications should not be used together.However, in certain cases, two medications may be used together, even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change your dose or take other precautions. When taking this medication, it is important that you inform your doctor if you are taking any over the counter or prescription medications.
• Other Interactions: Certain medications should not be used while eating, or while eating certain foods in case of negative interactions. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medications may also cause negative interactions. Talk with your doctor about the use of your medication with food, alcohol or tobacco.

Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red. Do not use Alaway to treat irritation related to contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, take them out before using this medication. Wait at least 10 minutes after using this medication to replace the contact lenses.

To use the solution

• Wash your hands.
• Tilt your head back and press your lower finger gently just beneath the lower eyelid.
• Pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to make a space. Drop the medication into this space.
• Let go of the eyelid and close your eyes. Do not blink.
• Keep the eyes closed and apply pressure to the inner corner of the eye for 1-2 minutes to allow your eye to absorb the medication.
• Wash your hands immediately after use to remove any medication that may be on them.

Do not touch the applicator tip to any surface. Keep the container tightly closed. This will help prevent infection of the eye.

Dosing

Different patients will be given a different dose of this medication based on the strength of the medication. The number of doses you take each day, the time between doses and the length of time you take this medication depends on the reason you are taking this medication.

The following information only includes the average dose of this medication. If your dose is different, do not change it without first speaking to your doctor.

• Adults and children 3 years of age and older - 1 drop in each affected eye every 8-12 hours.
• Children up to 3 years of age - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not double dose.

Storage

Store this medication in a closed container at room temperature. Keep it away form heat, moisture and direct light. Do not freeze.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep expired medication or medication you no longer need. Ask your doctor how to dispose of any medication you do not use.

Before using Alaway, there are some precautions you must take. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

Some side effects that may occur when using Alaway do not normally need medical attention. These may leave as your body becomes accustomed to treatment. Ask your doctor about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Ask your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.