Optilast Eye Drops

What are Optilast Eye Drops?

Optilast are eye drops which soothe itchy, watery and red eyes caused by hay fever or an allergic reaction. 

How does Optilast work?

Optilast is an antihistamine. It works by preventing the histamine receptors in the eyes from releasing histamine. This is a chemical produced naturally in the body as a response to a threat. This is what happens when you come into contact with an allergen, such as pollen. It causes the symptoms like itchy, runny eyes to occur. Optilast stops this from happening, soothing and preventing your allergy symptoms.

How long do Optilast eye drops take to work?

Optilast eye drops will start to work in 15-30 minutes, providing fast release from allergy symptoms. 

Active ingredients

The active ingredient in Optilast is azelastine hydrochloride.

Inactive ingredients

The inactive ingredients are benzalkonium chloride, disodium edetate, hypromellose, liquid sorbitol (crystallising) (E420i) and sodium hydroxide (E524).

How to use Optilast eye drops

You can use Optilast eye drops to relieve symptoms as they occur or to prevent them before coming into contact with an allergen. Tilt your head back and squeeze one drop into each eye twice a day for up to six weeks. If this does not provide relief you can use it for a maximum of four times a day. 

Optilast dosage

Use one drop in each eye at a time. The drops are usually administered twice a day, with a maximum of four times a day (8 drops). 

Optilast side effects

Mild irritation is a possible side effect including temporary: 

• Burning 
• Itching 
• Watering

Uncommon side effects may include: 

• A bitter taste in the mouth 
• Allergic reaction 

Contraindications

You should not use Optilast if you allergic to azelastine hydrochloride and refrain from wearing soft contact lenses while using the eye drops. 

Can I use Optilast with other eye drops?

Optilast can be used alongside other eye drops. If you are using more than one type then space out the doses by at least five minutes to allow the first drop to be absorbed and settle in to the eye. 

Will Optilast affect my vision?

Optilast may cause your vision to blur at first. This is a temporary side effect which doesn't last long. You shouldn't drive until this subsides. 

Can I drive whilst using Optilast?

You may experience blurred vision temporarily from using Optilast. If this happens, do not drive until your vision clears and you known how Optilast affects you. 

Drug interactions

Optilast eye drops do not interact with any other medicines. If you are using any other type of eye drops then leave at least a five minute gap between administering each one. 

Can I use Optilast with other hay fever treatments?

Optalist can be used alongside other hay fever treatments such as nasal sprays and antihistamine tablets. Always follow the instructions provided to ensure you are taking both medicines correctly. 

Tips to avoid hay fever

While hay fever is not completely avoidable during pollen season, there are some things you can do to reduce your exposure to pollen. These include staying indoors on days when the pollen count is high, ensuring the windows are closed, showering and changing clothes after being outside, not walking over freshly cut grass and wearing wrap around sunglasses to protect your eyes. 

Optilast vs Rapitil eye drops

Optilast is an antihistamine which is fast working whereas Rapitil is a Cromoglicate which causes the mast cells to stabilise, preventing an allergic response. Rapitil works well but it won't have an immediate effect so it is more suitable to use as a preventative measure, a couple of days before being exposed to pollen or pet hair. 

Alternatives to Optilast

There are several different types of treatments for hayfever and allergies. These include steroid nasal sprays like azelastine and fluticasone, decongestant nasal sprays and antihistamine tablets. 

Can I use Optilast eye drops for other allergies?

Optilast eye drops can be used for any type of allergy which affects your eyes. This includes hay fever, dust, pet hair and some food allergies. 

Sources

• Patient Information Leaflet
• Mayo Clinic > Hay Fever Diagnosis & Treatment