Lastacaft

1 What is Lastacaft?

Brand: Lastacaft

Generic: Alcaftadine ophthalmic

Lastacaft drops are used to prevent itching in the eye caused by allergic conjunctivitiss (pink eye).

It works by preventing the effects of certain inflammatory substances, which are produced by cells in your eyes and may sometimes cause allergice reactions.

This medication is only available through your doctor’s prescription.

The product is available in the following dosage forms:

  • Solution
Have a question aboutConjunctivitis?Ask a doctor now

2 What to Know Before Using

Before using Lastacaft, you must know all about the risks and complications associated with it.

As with all medicines, the risks must be compared to how much a medication 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 

Up-to-date Pediatric Appropriate studies have not indicated that the use of this medication causes any problems that would limit the use of this medication. However, safety and efficacy have not been established in children younger than 2 years of age.

Geriatric

Up-to-date studies have not shown any problems specific to the elderly that would limit the use of this medication in the elderly population.

Pregnancy

This medication is listed as Pregnancy Category B. This means that animal studies have revealed no evidence of harm to the unborn baby, however there are are no studies in pregnant women OR animal studies have showed an adverse affect to the unborn baby, but studies in pregnant women have not shown a risk to the unborn baby.

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.

Drug Interactions

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 prescription or over the counter 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 mediations may also cause negative interactions. Talk with your doctor about the use of your medication with food, alcohol or tobacco.

3 Proper Usage

To use Lastacaft properly, you must follow all instructions given by your doctor.

Only take this medication as directed by your doctor. Do not take more, less or for a longer or shorter period of time than your doctor tells you.

If you are using 2 or more drops, wait at lest 5 minutes before putting another eye drop in the same eye.

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:

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, teenagers and children 2 years of age and older

1 drop in the affected eye once a day.

Children younger than 2 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 our 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.

4 Precautions to Take

Before using Lastacaft, there are some precautions you must take.

Your doctor should check your eyes at regular visits to make sure the medication is working properly.

This medication should not be used for irritation caused by contact lenses.

If your symptoms do not improve withint a few days, or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

5 Potential Side Effects

As with many medications, there are several potential side effects associated with Lastacaft.

A medication may produce unwanted affects along with the intended effects. Although not all of these side-effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side-effects:

Less common:

  • Burning or stinging sensation in the eye
  • Itching of the eyes
  • Red, sore eyes

Some side effects that may occur 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.

Talk to your doctor if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome, or if you have questions

Less common:

Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any other side effects.

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

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