Antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops

Overview

Antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops (brand name Otrivine-Antistin®) are used to treat allergic conjunctivitis.

Allergic conjunctivitis causes red, watery and itchy eyes. It is caused by exposure to irritants such as plant pollens, pet fur, cosmetics or house dust mite.

Antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops are available on prescription, or you can buy them without a prescription at a pharmacy. They can be used by adults and by children over 12 years of age.

Antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops contain two active ingredients that work together to relieve eye symptoms caused by allergies such as hay fever.

Antazoline is an antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine, a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. This helps reduce itching, watering, and irritation of the eyes.

Xylometazoline is a decongestant that narrows the blood vessels in the eye. This helps reduce redness and swelling.

The most common side effects of antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops are:

• Burning.

• Stinging.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your drops.

Unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to a new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if the following continues or becomes troublesome.

To make sure this is the right treatment for you, before you start using the eye drops it is important that your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you wear soft contact lenses.

• If you have any of the following: high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid gland, diabetes, increased pressure in your eye (glaucoma), heart or blood vessel disease, difficulty peeing or a tumour on your adrenal glands, called phaeochromocytoma.

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only use medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antihistamine or to any eye drops.

• If you are taking or using any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

1. Wash your hands well before you use the drops.

2. Remove the cap.

3. Tilt your head back a little and pull the lower lid of your eye out to form a pocket.

4. Hold the bottle upside down near to your eye. Try not to touch your eye as you do this.

5. Gently squeeze the bottle to release one drop into your eye. Only use a second drop if the first drop missed going into your eye.

6. Close your eye for a minute or two, and press gently on the side of your nose where the corner of your eye meets your nose. This helps to stop the drop from draining away and keeps it in your eye.

7. Repeat the process in your other eye.

8. Replace the cap.

• Read the leaflet before use. It explains how to use the drops and lists possible side effects.

• Use the drops 2-3 times a day. Apply them to both eyes unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

• Keep the dropper tip clean. Do not touch your eye, fingers, or any surface with the bottle tip.

• Expect brief blurred vision. Wait until your vision is clear before driving or using tools or machinery.

• Leave 5-10 minutes between different eye drops. This helps each medicine work properly.

• Avoid soft contact lenses. Do not wear them while using the drops unless your doctor advises otherwise.

• See a doctor if symptoms do not improve. Get medical advice if your symptoms worsen or have not improved within a few days.

• Do not use for longer than 7 days. Most people notice an improvement within a few days, but treatment may be needed for up to a week.

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

• Eye drops only keep for four weeks once the bottle has been opened so throw away the bottle after you have finished the course of treatment, even if there is some solution left.

• Never keep opened bottles of eye drops to use later. This helps to prevent the risk of eye infections.

How quickly do antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops work?

The drops usually start to relieve eye allergy symptoms within a few minutes. Redness, itching, and irritation often improve shortly after use.

Can I use antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops every day?

Use the drops exactly as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or the instructions in the pack. They are intended for short-term relief and should not be used for longer than recommended.

Can I use antazoline and xylometazoline eye drops with other eye drops?

Yes, but leave at least 5-10 minutes between different eye drops. This helps ensure each medicine is absorbed properly.

Can I wear contact lenses while using these eye drops?

Do not wear contact lenses while your eyes are red or irritated. If you wear lenses, follow the instructions in the patient leaflet and wait until your symptoms have improved before wearing them again.