Optivar (Azelastine)

Do’s

• Use Optivar exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically twice a day in each affected eye.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before using the eye drops.
• If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying the drops and wait at least 10 minutes before putting them back in.
• Apply the drops following these steps:
  • Tilt your head back, look up, and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a pouch.
  • Hold the dropper directly over your eye and squeeze one drop into the pouch.
  • Look down, close your eyes gently, and apply pressure to the inner corner of your eye for 1-2 minutes to prevent drainage.
  • Repeat for the other eye if needed.
  • Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface.
  • Replace the cap after each use.
• Use other eye medications with a 5-minute interval between Optivar. Apply eye drops before ointments.
• Allow your vision to clear before driving or operating machinery.
• Use Optivar consistently, ideally at the same times each day.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens.

Don'ts

• Don't increase your dosage or use Optivar more often than prescribed.
• Don't skip or discontinue Optivar without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't touch the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
• Don't use Optivar with other eye medications without at least a 5-minute gap.

Common side effects:

• Blurred vision (temporary)
• Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
• Temporary bitter taste in the mouth
• Headache
• Eye discomfort such as itching or redness
• Temporary discomfort upon application, such as stinging or burning for a minute or two

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Severe burning, stinging, itching, or eye redness after using this medication
• Eye pain
• Trouble breathing
• Fever, chills, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Optivar,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to Azelastine before using Optivar.

Azelastine may cause temporary blurred vision after application. Avoid activities requiring clear vision like driving or operating machinery until your vision clears completely.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including Optivar, before surgery.

Azelastine should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. It is unknown if Azelastine passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Optivar (Azelastine) can interact with other medications you are taking, affecting how they work or increasing the risk of side effects. Create a record of all medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products) you use. Provide the list of medications you take to your healthcare provider. Don't start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medications without consulting your healthcare provider first.