alcaftadine ophthalmic

Action and Spectrum

Actions and Spectrum: 

alcaftadine ophthalmic works by blocking histamine, a substance that is released by the body during an allergic reaction. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

1-10% 

Burning 

Irritation 

Redness 

Stinging 

Eye discharge 

Eyelid edema 

Eye swelling 

Pruritis 

Influenza  

Somnolence 

Headache  

Nasopharyngitis 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

The drug should not be used to treat irritation due to contact lenses. 

Do not wear contact lens if the eyes get red. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

alcaftadine should not be used in people hypersensitive to the drug itself. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:  

No data is available regarding the use of the drug during pregnancy. 

Breastfeeding warnings:  

No data is available regarding the secretion of the drug in breast milk. 

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies do not show risk to the fetus in the first/later trimester.        
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women.        
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.       
• Category D: adequate data available with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits.        
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women.        
• Category N: No data is available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology 

alcaftadine is an antihistamine that is used to treat the symptoms of allergies, such as itching, redness, and swelling of the eyes, nose, and throat. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a chemical that is released by the body during an allergic reaction.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

The pharmacodynamics of alcaftadine ophthalmic solution involves the binding of the drug to histamine receptors in the eye, which blocks the action of histamine and reduces the symptoms of allergy. 

Pharmacokinetics: 

The peak plasma concentration is achieved at 0.25 hour. The concentration level is 60pg/ml. The percentage of bound protein is 39.2%. 

Absorption 

alcafatadine is minimally absorbed through the ocular route. 

Distribution 

The volume of distribution of alcaftadine is high. The half-life of the drug is 2 hours.  

Metabolism 

alcaftadine is metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 enzymes. It is converted into several different metabolites, which are then excreted in the urine.it is eliminated from the body relatively quickly. 

Elimination and excretion 

The drug is excreted in urine and feces.

Adminstartion

Administration: 

The alcaftadine is administered into the eyes. If multiple ocular products are used, maintain a gap of 5 minutes at least. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: alcaftadine 

Pronounced: al-kaf-ta-dine 

Why do we use alcaftadine? 

alcaftadine topical helps treat Allergic Conjunctivitis.