Alcaftadine
Generic Details
Generic Name
Alcaftadine
Other Names
Drug Class
- Antihistamine
Chemical Formula
C19H21N5
Molecular Weight
295.404 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Histamine H1 receptor antagonist
Indications
- Allergic Conjunctivitis
Common Dosage Forms
- Ophthalmic solution
Typical Dosage
- One drop in the affected eye(s) twice a day
Pediatric Dosage
- Safety and efficacy not established in children under 2 years of age
Geriatric Dosage
- Dosing adjustment may be needed for elderly patients
Side Effects
- Headache
- Bitter taste
- Eye irritation
- Nasopharyngitis
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to alcaftadine or any component of the formulation
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Use with caution; not recommended during breastfeeding
Drug Interactions
- No significant drug interactions reported
Overdose Symptoms
- Limited information available; manage symptoms supportively
Antidote for Overdose
- No specific antidote; treat symptoms as they arise
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after ophthalmic administration
- Distribution: Not extensively studied
- Metabolism: Metabolized primarily by CYP3A4
- Excretion: Mainly via urine
Precautions
- Caution in patients with hepatic impairment
Warnings
- For ophthalmic use only; not for injection or oral ingestion