Why is this medication prescribed?

Bepotastine ophthalmic is prescribed to relieve itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis, a condition where the eyes become inflamed due to an allergic reaction. It belongs to a class of medications called antihistamines, which work by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms such as itching.

How should this medicine be used?

Bepotastine ophthalmic should be used according to the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Here are general guidelines for using Bepotastine ophthalmic:

• Wash your hands: Before using the eye drops, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to prevent contamination.
• Prepare the dropper: Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the medication is evenly mixed. Remove the cap from the bottle.
• Tilt your head back: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Apply the eye drops: Hold the dropper directly over your eye and gently squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the pocket formed by your lower eyelid. Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface to prevent contamination.
• Close your eye: Close your eye gently and press lightly on the inner corner of your eye with your finger for about 1-2 minutes. This helps prevent the medication from draining out of your eye and into your bloodstream, which can reduce the effectiveness of the medication and increase the risk of side effects.
• Repeat if necessary: If your doctor has instructed you to use more than one drop per eye or to apply drops to both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye(s).
• Replace the cap: After using the eye drops, replace the cap on the bottle and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Follow dosage instructions: Use Bepotastine ophthalmic exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed.

If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Bepotastine ophthalmic, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Bepotastine ophthalmic is primarily used for allergic conjunctivitis, but it may have off-label uses as determined by your healthcare provider. Off-label uses might include the treatment of other types of eye irritation or inflammation not related to allergies, but this should only be done under the supervision of a doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to bepotastine or other medications.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using bepotastine ophthalmic with your doctor.
• Contact lenses: Remove contact lenses before applying the eye drops and wait at least 10 minutes before reinserting them.
• Other eye medications: If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applying each medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
• Driving or operating machinery: Bepotastine ophthalmic may cause temporary blurred vision or other visual disturbances. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Eye irritation: If your symptoms worsen or persist after using bepotastine ophthalmic, or if you experience eye pain, vision changes, or signs of infection, contact your doctor promptly.
• Children: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established, so use in children should be under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with the product for specific precautions and information.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with the use of bepotastine ophthalmic. However, if you have any concerns about your diet or how it may interact with your medication, it’s always best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of bepotastine ophthalmic, use it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not use extra medication to make up for a missed dose. If you have any questions or concerns about missed doses, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Bepotastine ophthalmic, like any medication, may cause side effects in some people. Common side effects of bepotastine ophthalmic may include:

• Eye irritation or burning sensation
• Headache
• Dry eye
• Unpleasant taste in the mouth
• Blurred vision
• Eyelid swelling or redness
• Watery eyes
• Sensation of something in the eye

These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, or if you experience any other unusual or severe side effects, contact your doctor or healthcare provider promptly.

In rare cases, bepotastine ophthalmic may cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

It’s essential to report any side effects you experience to your healthcare provider, as they can help determine whether the medication is suitable for you and whether any adjustments need to be made to your treatment plan.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Bepotastine ophthalmic:

Storage:

• Store Bepotastine ophthalmic eye drops at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
• Store away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Keep the medication out of the reach of children and pets.

Disposal:

• Dispose of unused or expired Bepotastine ophthalmic eye drops according to local regulations or guidelines provided by your pharmacist.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call emergency services immediately.
• If the overdose is suspected or accidental ingestion occurs, contact a poison control center or emergency room for advice.

What other information should I know?

• Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body’s response to Bepotastine ophthalmic.
• Do not share your medication with others, as it may not be suitable for them and may harm them.
• Inform your doctor or dentist about all the products you use, including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products, before undergoing any surgical procedure.
• If you are using other eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applying each medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Following these guidelines ensures the safe and effective use of Bepotastine ophthalmic. If you have any further questions or concerns, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.