Indications
Antazoline hydrochloride is an antihistamine used in eye drops, usually combined with a decongestant such as Xylometazoline or Naphazoline, to relieve redness, itching, watering and swelling of the eyes caused by allergies (allergic conjunctivitis), dust, smoke or other mild irritants.
How It Works
During an allergic reaction the eye releases histamine, which causes itching, redness and watering. Antazoline blocks histamine (H1) receptors, which eases these symptoms. The decongestant partner narrows the small blood vessels on the eye surface, reducing redness.
Dosage and Administration
For adults and children over 12 years: usually 1 to 2 drops in each affected eye 2 to 3 times a day, or as directed on the label or by a doctor. Wash hands before use, avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye, and do not use for more than a few days in a row without medical advice. Remove soft contact lenses before use and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back.
Interactions
- MAO inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants such as Amitriptyline may increase the effects of the decongestant partner on blood pressure.
- Other eye drops should be used at least 5 minutes apart.
Contraindications
- Allergy to antazoline or any ingredient.
- Narrow-angle glaucoma (because of the decongestant).
- Children under 12 years unless a doctor advises it, and infants.
Side Effects
Brief stinging or burning on use, blurred vision for a few minutes, dilated pupils and dry eyes are possible. Overuse can cause rebound redness when the drops are stopped. Rarely, headache, a fast heartbeat or raised blood pressure occur from absorbed decongestant.
Get urgent medical help for eye pain, sudden loss or change of vision, seeing haloes around lights, severe redness that gets worse, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the eyelids, face or throat.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is limited information. Use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding only if a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- See a doctor if symptoms last more than 3 days, or if there is eye pain, discharge or reduced vision, which may mean infection or a more serious problem.
- Use with care in high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and overactive thyroid.
- Do not drive until vision is clear after use.
- Discard the bottle 4 weeks after opening.
Overdose
If swallowed, especially by a child, drowsiness, slow breathing or low body temperature can occur because of the decongestant. Seek medical help at once.
Therapeutic Class
Ophthalmic antihistamine (often combined with a vasoconstrictor decongestant).
Storage
Store below 30°C, away from light and out of the reach of children. Keep the bottle tightly closed and do not use after 4 weeks from opening.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.