February 9, 2010
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Drug Factsheets

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Claritin Eye Allergy Relief

(oxymetazoline eye drops)

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

02243688 CLARITIN EYE ALLERGY RELIEF

How does Claritin Eye Allergy Relief work? What will it do for me?

Oxymetazoline belongs to a group of medications called topical decongestants. It is used in eye drops to relieve symptoms of watery and irritated eyes caused by allergic conditions such as hayfever, and other irritations of the eye not caused by infection.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Claritin Eye Allergy Relief?

For adults and children six years of age and older, the recommended dose of oxymetazoline eye drops is 1 or 2 drops into the eye 3 to 4 times daily. The treatment usually continues for 7 to 10 days. Soft contact lenses should be removed before using this medication. You should notice improvement in your condition within 3 days and treatment should be continued until the condition is completely cleared up. If irritation persists, or if irritation gets worse or does not improve within three days, contact your doctor. To avoid contamination of the eye drops, do not allow the dropper tip to touch the eye or any other surface. Always replace the cap on the container after using. Do not share eye drops, as this may spread infection between people. Do not use the solution if it changes colour or becomes cloudy.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is very important to use this medication exactly as recommended by your doctor. Do not use higher doses than those recommended by your doctor. If you are using this medication regularly and you miss a dose, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Claritin Eye Allergy Relief come in?

Each mL contains oxymetazoline HCl USP, 0.25 mg (0.025%) in a clear, sterile isotonic, buffered aqueous solution. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzalkonium chloride, boric acid, disodium edetate, purified distilled water and sodium chloride. The pH is adjusted to approximately 6.4 with sodium hydroxide or hydrochloric acid.

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

Who should NOT take Claritin Eye Allergy Relief?

Oxymetazoline eye drops should not be used by anyone who:

  • has untreated angle closure glaucoma
  • is allergic to oxymetazoline or any of the ingredients of the medication
  • has an eye infection

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