Alcaftadine
Alcaftadine 0.25% Eye Drops: A Daily Solution for Allergic Conjunctivitis
Allergic conjunctivitis is a common inflammatory response to allergens such as pollen dust or pet dander. Alcaftadine (the active ingredient in brands like Lastacaft) is a powerful antihistamine designed to provide rapid and long-lasting relief from ocular itching.
How It Works
Alcaftadine addresses the source of the symptoms by acting as an H1-receptor antagonist.
- Blockade: When allergens enter the eye, the body releases histamines. Alcaftadine prevents these histamines from binding to receptors.
- Stabilisation: It also acts as a mast-cell stabiliser, preventing the release of inflammatory chemicals from the eye’s cells.
Key Product Highlights
| Feature |
Benefit |
| Onset of Action |
Works within minutes of application. |
| Duration |
Single-dose efficacy for up to 24 hours. |
| Class |
Antihistamine & Mast Cell Stabilizer. |
| Primary Use |
Prevention of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. |
How to Use Alcaftadine Correctly
To maximise the efficacy of Alcaftadine, follow these steps:
- 1. Wash your hands to prevent secondary infections.
- 2. Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- 3. Hold the dropper directly over the eye. Look up and away, then squeeze one drop into the pocket.
- 4. Close your eye for 1–2 minutes. Do not rub your eye. Apply light pressure to the corner of your eye (near the nose) to prevent the medication from draining into your tear duct.
- 5. If you wear contact lenses, remove them first. Wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, as the preservative in the drops can discolour soft lenses.
Safety Precautions & Side Effects
Alcaftadine is generally well-tolerated but some users may experience:
- Common: A brief stinging or burning sensation immediately after the drop is applied.
- Occasional: Redness, eye irritation or a slight headache.
- Rare but Serious: If you experience swelling, severe crusting or blurred vision that does not clear up, discontinue use and contact your ophthalmologist immediately.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Alcaftadine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly necessary. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor first, although systemic absorption is minimal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use Alcaftadine for a “pink eye” infection?
A: No. Alcaftadine is specifically for allergic reactions. If your eye is producing thick yellow or green discharge or is painful, you likely have a bacterial or viral infection which requires a different type of drop (such as an antibiotic).
Q: How many times a day should I use it?
A: Unlike many over-the-counter drops that require four doses a day, Alcaftadine is designed for once-daily use. Using it more often will not improve its efficacy and may increase irritation.
Q: Is it safe for children?
A: Alcaftadine is typically approved for children aged two years and older. However, always verify the dosage with a paediatrician before commencing treatment.
Q: Can I use Alcaftadine with other eye drops?
A: Yes, but timing is important. If you are using multiple types of drops (such as artificial tears), wait at least five to ten minutes between different medications to prevent the first from being washed out.
Q: Does it cause drowsiness like oral antihistamines?
A: Generally, no. Because the medication is applied topically to the eye, very little enters the bloodstream compared to a pill, so it should not cause drowsiness.
