Dosing and uses of Optivar (azelastine ophthalmic)
Adult dosage forms and strengths
ophthalmic solution
- 0.05%
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Instill 1 gtt in affected eye(s) q12hr
Pediatric dosage forms and strengths
ophthalmic solution
- 0.05%
Allergic Conjunctivitis
<3 years: Safety and efficacy not established
>3 years: As adults; instill 1 gtt in affected eye(s) q12hr
Optivar (azelastine ophthalmic) adverse (side) effects
>10%
Transient burning/stinging (30%)
Headache (15%)
Bitter taste (10%)
Frequency not defined
Asthma
Temporary blurring
Bitter taste
Conjunctivitis
Dyspnea
Eye pain
Fatigue
Influenza-like symptoms
Pharyngitis
Pruritus
Rhinitis
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Contact lens-related irritation
Cautions
Do not wear contact lenses if eyes are red; wait 10 min after azelastine to insert contacts
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 Optivar (azelastine ophthalmic)
Mechanism of action
Histamine H1 antagonist, inhibits vascular permeability and release of histamine and other mediators involved in allergic response
Pharmacokinetics
Half-Life: 22 hr
Onset of action: 3 min (peak effect)
Duration: 8 hr
Absorption: Extremely low systemic exposure
Protein Bound: 88-97%
Metabolism: Liver
Excretion: Feces
