Epinastine Ophthalmic

What is epinastine ophthalmic?

Epinastine ophthalmic is an antihistamine eye medication used off label (extra label) to treat itchiness associated with eye allergies in all species of pets.

Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. “Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How do I give my pet epinastine ophthalmic?

• Epinastine ophthalmic comes in a liquid drop format to be instilled directly to the eye (topically).
• Follow your veterinarian’s instructions and give this medication exactly as directed.
• Wash your hands before applying this medication.
• Do not allow anything to touch the dropper tip, including your hands, to avoid contamination.
• Gently wipe any residue of this medication from the fur on your pet’s face with a damp cloth.
• Wait 5 minutes after applying this medicine before applying any other medicines to the eye.

This medication should take effect quickly, within 1–2 hours, and an improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose of epinastine ophthalmic, give it as soon as you remember, and then continue with the regular dosing schedule. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects from epinastine ophthalmic?

Epinastine ophthalmic may cause the following side effects:

• Burning and stinging of the eyes on application
• Runny discharge from the nose
• Redness of the eyes
• Eye itchiness and swelling of the eyelids after application (reported in humans)

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving epinastine ophthalmic and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Signs of an allergy to this medication (labored or noisy breathing or swelling of the throat)
• Skin rash

Drug sensitivities can develop over time with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE epinastine ophthalmic in:

• Pets with a hypersensitivity or allergy to this medication

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets that are pregnant or nursing

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

There are no documented drug interactions with epinastine ophthalmic. Certain medications may interact with epinastine ophthalmic, so be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any side effects occur, discontinue use of the medication and contact your veterinarian.
• Your veterinarian will let you know when they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.

How do I store epinastine ophthalmic?

• Store at room temperature: (68°F–77°F or 20°C–25°C).
• Do not freeze.
• Store upright and tightly closed in the original bottle.
• Protect from light and heat.
• Store compounded forms of this medication according to the label.
• Keep medication out of reach of children and pets.

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet’s weight and symptoms.