Dosing and uses of Elestat (epinastine)
Adult dosage forms and strengths
ophthalmic solution
- 0.05%
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Instill 1 gtt in affected eye(s) q12hr; continue throughout period of exposure even in absense of symptoms
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
ophthalmic solution
- 0.05%
Allergic Conjunctivitis
<2 years: Safety and efficacy not established
>2 years: As adults, instill 1 gtt in affected eye(s) q12hr
Elestat (epinastine) adverse (side) effects
Frequency not defined
Headache
Burning sensation in eye
Folliculosis
Hyperemia
Pruritus
Nonocular infection
Postmarketing Reports
Increased lacrimation
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Contact lens-related irritation
Cautions
Do not wear contact lenses if eyes are red; wait 10 min after epinastine to insert contacts
Keratitis may occur from inadvertent contamination of multi-dose ophthalmic solution; use caution
Not for contact lens irritation relief
Do not wear contact lenses if eye is red
Pregnancy and lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use with caution
Pregnancy categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.
C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.
D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.
X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.
NA: Information not available.
Pharmacology of Elestat (epinastine)
Mechanism of action
Histamine H1 antagonist, inhibits vascular permeability and release of histamine and other mediators involved in allergic response; has affinity for H2 alpha1, alpha2, and 5HT2 receptors
Absorption
Onset: 3-5 min
Duration: 8 hr
Distribution
Protein Bound: 64%
Elimination
Half Life: 12 hr
Total Body Clearance: 56 L/hr
Excretion: Urine 55%; feces 30%
