Optilast

Optilast is an antihistamine treatment used to relieve and prevent the symptoms of hay fever, as well as pet and dust allergies. Applied as eye drops, this medicine targets conjunctivitis, alleviating itching, redness and watery eyes.

Optilast comes in an 8ml dropper bottle and is available by prescription only.

Alternatively, if you experience nasal symptoms, consider ordering Rhinolast. Rhinolast contains the same active ingredients as Optilast. However, due to its spray application it is more effective at treating congestion and an itching or runny nose.

Optilast contains the active ingredient azelastine hydrochloride, a type of medicine known as an antihistamine.

In response to allergens such as pet fur or pollen, the body produces a substance known as histamine. Histamine triggers a chemical reaction, resulting in inflammation and red, watery, itchy eyes.

Azelastine blocks the body's histamine receptors to prevent this reaction occurring.

When Optilast is placed directly in the eye, symptoms can be relieved in as soon as 15 to 30 minutes.

Always follow the advice of your doctor and pharmacist. You will also find comprehensive instructions in the Optilast patient leaflet:

• wash your hands before using the drops
• place 1 drop into each eye twice daily
• increase to 1 drop in each eye up to 4 times a day, if needed
• you can also use drops to prevent symptoms before exposure to pollen
• use drops for up to 6 weeks at a time

If your symptoms do not improve within 48 hours of applying the treatment, please consult your doctor - they may wish to prescribe an alternate treatment.

Also inform your doctor if you suffer any eye irritation as a result of this medication.

Most people who use this medicine do not experience any side effects. However, the most commonly occuring is:

• eye irritation

If you suffer any side effects not listed, or the eye irritation is particularly distressing, please consult your doctor.

It is also possible for this treatment to cause drowsiness. You should consider how you respond to it before driving or operating machinery.

You should always listen to the advice of your doctor when using any medication.

When taking Optilast, it is important that you:

• do not use Optilast for more than 6 weeks at a time
• do not wear soft contact lenses while using Optilast Eye Drops as this can cause irritation
• dispose of any unused solution within 4 weeks of opening, to prevent eye infections

Please note, the safety of using this medicine during pregnancy has not been established. If pregnant, you should consult your doctor before use.

Azelastine hydrochloride can transfer to breast milk so this medicine is not suitable for use by breastfeeding mothers.

You can buy Optilast online after completing a short questionnaire to be reviewed by our doctors. If approved, it will be kept in your member's area for future reordering. If for whatever reason your order is denied, our doctors will provide reasoning, and may suggest alternatives. Your health is our priority.

Our delivery options include free next-day delivery, nominated day delivery and pick up across the UK.