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Home > Drug Category > Allergy Medication > Elestat and Equivalent

Elestat Information

Elestat (epinastine hydrochloride) is an ophthalmic solution used to treat the itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. It is a dual-acting antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer. Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, triggered by an allergic reaction to substances like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.

The active ingredient, epinastine hydrochloride, works in two primary ways. Firstly, it acts as an H1-receptor antagonist, meaning it blocks the effects of histamine. Histamine is released by mast cells during an allergic reaction, causing the characteristic symptoms of itching, redness, and eye watering. By blocking histamine from binding to H1 receptors on the cells of the eye, epinastine hydrochloride provides rapid relief from itching. Secondly, epinastine hydrochloride also stabilizes mast cells. Mast cells are immune cells that store and release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when exposed to allergens. By stabilizing these cells, epinastine hydrochloride prevents or reduces the release of these substances, thereby preventing the allergic reaction from occurring or worsening. This dual mechanism helps to provide both immediate relief from itching and longer-term control of allergic eye symptoms.

Elestat is typically administered as one drop in each affected eye twice daily. For optimal results, it is essential to use the medication consistently as prescribed, even if symptoms improve. The ophthalmic solution is sterile and should be handled carefully to avoid contamination.

Elestat Side Effects

The side effects associated with Elestat are generally mild and localized to the eye. The most commonly reported side effects include temporary blurred vision, a stinging or burning sensation upon instillation, and headache. Some individuals may also experience a temporary gritty feeling in the eye, eye redness, or tearing. Other less common side effects that can occur due to the medication draining into the nasal passages and throat include a dry mouth, sore throat (pharyngitis), or other cold-like symptoms.

While serious side effects are rare, it is essential to be aware of potential issues. You should discontinue use of Elestat and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Ocular Infections or Irritation: Although rare, the medication or the application process could potentially lead to or worsen an eye infection, severe eye pain, or increased redness. If your eye condition worsens or persists for more than a few days, you should seek medical advice.

• Allergic Reaction to the Medication: While used to treat allergic reactions, it is possible, though uncommon, to have a systemic allergic response to epinastine hydrochloride or the preservatives in the eye drops. Signs of a severe allergic reaction could include rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

• Vision Changes: Any persistent or significant changes in vision, such as severe blurred vision or difficulty focusing, should be reported to your doctor.

Elestat Precautions

Before using Elestat, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider of your complete medical history and any known allergies. You should not use Elestat if you have a known hypersensitivity to epinastine hydrochloride or any of the ingredients in the formulation. Elestat is not recommended for use in children under 2 years of age.

Elestat is for ophthalmic use only. Do not touch the dropper tip to your eye or any other surface, as this can contaminate the solution and lead to eye infections. If you wear contact lenses, it is generally recommended to remove them before using Elestat and wait at least 10-15 minutes after instillation before reinserting them, as the preservative in the eye drops (benzalkonium chloride) may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Suppose you are using other eye medications, such as ointments or other drops. In that case, you should wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between applying each medication to allow for proper absorption. It is advisable to use Elestat last if applying multiple ophthalmic products.

There is limited information available regarding the use of Elestat in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Animal studies have not indicated a risk, but there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans. Therefore, Elestat should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly needed and if the potential benefits justify the possible risks to the fetus or infant. Always store Elestat at room temperature (between 15°C and 30°C) and keep it out of reach of children. Discard the bottle 30 days after opening to prevent contamination, even if some medication remains.

Do I need a prescription to order Elestat?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Elestat.