What is Cetirizine ophthalmic?
Cetirizine (for the eye) is used for itchy eyes due to allergies. Cetirizine can be used by adults and children over 2 years of age. Cetirizine ophthalmic should not be used to treat eye irritation due to contact lens use. Cetirizine ophthalmic can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Cetirizine ophthalmic
If you experience symptoms indicative of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing or swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat - seek medical assistance immediately!
Some of the common side effects associated with cetirizine eye drops include:
- Eye pain after using eye drops
- Eye redness;
- Reduced vision
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Be sure to carefully follow all instructions listed on your medication's package or label, and inform your healthcare provider of all medical conditions, allergies and medicines you are currently taking.
Before you take this drug
Cetirizine should not be used by children under 2 years of age. Do not wait to tell your physician that you are pregnant or nursing; rather, inform him as soon as possible.
How to take Cetirizine ophthalmic?
Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label. Use only when wearing soft lenses. Cetirizine ophthalmic contains a preservative that could permanently stain lenses. Use the medication at least 10 minutes prior to inserting your contacts.
Before using eye medications, wash your hands. Applying eye drops is as simple as tilting your head back and pulling down your lower lid to create a pocket. Squeeze some drops into the pocket created by holding the dropper over one eye, close both eyes for about one or two minutes and slowly release your dropper from its position over your eyeballs. Only use the prescribed number of drops.
Avoid placing or touching the tip directly against your eye, since contamination of a dropper could potentially result in serious vision impairment. Keep away from heat and moisture at room temperature, in an upright position. Keep the foil pouches for each single-use bottle until you're ready to use them. Each single-use bottle is only for one use on both eyes. After one use, throw away the container, even if it still contains medicine.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for allergic conjunctivitis:
Two drops in each eye affected twice daily (about 8 hours apart).
Use: To treat ocular itching that is associated with allergy conjunctivitis.
The usual paediatric dose for allergic conjunctivitis in children is:
For children 2 years old and older, instill two drops into each affected eye twice daily (approximately eight hours apart).
Use: To treat ocular itching due to allergic conjunctivitis
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses of cetirizine are not considered dangerous. If anyone accidentally swallows the medication, seek emergency medical care or call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
If your eyes are red, avoid wearing contact lenses.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs that you take are unlikely to affect the medicine used on your eyes. Many drugs interact with each other. Inform your healthcare provider about the medicines you take, including prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
