Lastacaft (alcaftadine) is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes.
Lastacaft ophthalmic solution is used to prevent itching in the eyes caused by allergies.
Lastacaft should not be used to treat eye irritation caused by contact lenses.
Lastacaft may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
To make sure you can safely use Lastacaft, tell your doctor about any medical conditions that affect your eyes.
Lastacaft should not be used to treat eye irritation caused by contact lenses.
Do not use Lastacaft while wearing contact lenses. Lastacaft ophthalmic may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using Lastacaft before putting your contact lenses in. Lastacaft should not be used in a child younger than 2 years old. Do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye. Stop using Lastacaft and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or other irritation after using the eye drops.
Before using Lastacaft
You should not use Lastacaft if you are allergic to alcaftadine.
To make sure you can safely use Lastacaft, tell your doctor about any medical conditions that affect your eyes.
FDA pregnancy category B. Lastacaft is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether alcaftadine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Lastacaft should not be used in a child younger than 2 years old.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
How should I use Lastacaft?
Use Lastacaft exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Do not use this medication while wearing contact lenses. Lastacaft may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 15 minutes after using Lastacaft before putting your contact lenses in. Wash your hands before using eye medication.
To apply the eye drops:
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Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper as you squeeze out a drop, then close your eye.
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Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.
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Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.
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Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops that your doctor has prescribed.
Do not allow the tip of the dropper to touch any surface, including your eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.
Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your doctor for a new prescription.
Store Lastacaft at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid?
Do not use other eye medications during treatment with Lastacaft unless your doctor tells you to.
Lastacaft side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction to Lastacaft: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using Lastacaft and call your doctor at once if you have severe burning, stinging, or other irritation after using the eye drops.
Less serious Lastacaft side effects may include:
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mild burning, stinging, or irritation;
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eye redness or itching;
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runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, flu symptoms; or
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headache.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Lastacaft?
It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on Lastacaft used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell your doctor about all medicines you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
