Oculast
Oculast Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Oculast is a brand name. Its generic name is Azelastine.
Oculast - Overview
Oculast is a prescription medication used to prevent and treat the symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, and to prevent itching of the eyes caused by allergies. It is available in an oral form, eye drops, and nasal spray.Uses For Oculast
Oculast is used to prevent and treat the symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, and to prevent itching of the eyes caused by allergies. It is also used to prevent and treat itching of the eyes related to allergic conjunctivitis.Mechanism of Action
Oculast works by acting on histamine receptors in the body. Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical compound that is involved in allergic reactions. Oculast works by blocking the action of the histamine and preventing it from causing allergic reactions.How Long Does It Take to Work?
Oculast typically takes effect within a few minutes of administration and can last up to 24 hours.Absorption
Oculast is well absorbed in the body after oral, inhalation, or topical administration.Route of Elimination
Oculast is primarily metabolised in the liver by CYP450 and then excreted in the urine and faeces.Dosage and Administration
Oculast is available in tablet, oral suspension, eyedrop, and nasal spray forms. The appropriate dosage and administration depends on the form of azelastine being used and the medical condition being treated. For oral tablets, the usual dose is 1-2 tablets taken twice a day. For oral suspension, the usual dose is 2-4 milliliters of oral suspension taken twice a day, after meals. For eye drops, the usual dose is 2-4 drops into the affected eye(s) twice a day. For nasal spray, the usual dose is 2 sprays in each nostril twice a day.Side Effects
Common side effects of azelastine include drowsiness, dry mouth, fatigue, nasal irritation, and bitter taste in the mouth. Contact your doctor if any of these effects worsen or persist.Toxicity
Oculast has low toxicity when used at the recommended doses.Precautions
Oculast may cause drowsiness, so use caution before performing activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery. It is also important to tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you are taking before beginning treatment with azelastine.Interactions
Oculast may interact with other medications, causing unpredictable changes in effects or side effects. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking before beginning treatment with azelastine.Disease Interactions
Oculast may interact with certain diseases, such as renal impairment, liver disease, urinary retention, or asthma. It is important to tell your doctor if you have any of these conditions before beginning treatment with azelastine.Drug Interactions
Oculast may interact with certain drugs, such as anticholinergics, MAO inhibitors, or tricyclic antidepressants. It is important to tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medications before beginning treatment with azelastine.Food Interactions
Oculast may interact with certain foods, such as caffeine, grapefruit, or licorice. It is important to tell your doctor if you are consuming any of these foods before beginning treatment with azelastine.Pregnancy Use
Oculast should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of its use with your doctor before beginning treatment.Lactation Use
Oculast is not recommended for use during lactation. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of its use with your doctor before beginning treatment.Acute Overdose
If an overdose of azelastine is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.Contraindication
Oculast is contraindicated in patients who are allergic to any of the active ingredients or any of the inactive ingredients.Use Direction
It is important to follow the exact dosing instructions provided by your doctor. Do not increase the dose or frequency of azelastine without consulting your doctor.Storage Condition
Oculast should be stored at temperatures below 30°C (86°F).Volume of Distribution
The volume of distribution of azelastine is 0.39 L/kg.Half Life
The half life of azelastine is 5-11 hours.Clearance
The clearance of azelastine is 0.38 L/min/kg.Here you find in details version of Oculast
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Oculast
What is Oculast?
Oculast is a prescription medication used to treat allergic rhinitis, some types of sinusitis, and hives. It is a topical nasal spray and is also available as ophthalmic and topical solutions.
How does Oculast work?
Oculast works by blocking the release of certain natural substances that are involved in the allergic response or inflammation of nose tissue. This helps to reduce inflammation and relieve the symptoms associated with allergies or sinusitis.
What are the side effects of Oculast?
The most common side effects of Oculast are bitter or metallic taste in the mouth, headache, and dry mouth. Other possible side effects include nausea, dizziness, and sore throat. Speak with your doctor if you experience any side effects while taking Oculast.
Who should not use Oculast?
Oculast should not be used by people who are allergic to the active ingredient or any other ingredient in the product. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their doctor before using Oculast.
How should Oculast be used?
Oculast nasal spray should be used twice daily, one spray in each nostril. The ophthalmic solution and topical solution should be used once or twice daily, as directed by your physician.
Is Oculast habit-forming?
No, Oculast is not habit-forming.
Can Oculast cause drowsiness?
Yes, Oculast can cause drowsiness in some people, so it is important to pay attention to how your body responds to the medication. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are feeling drowsy.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Oculast?
If you miss a dose of Oculast, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time.
Can Oculast be used for children?
Yes, but Oculast is not approved for use in children under the age of 12. Speak with your doctor if you are considering giving Oculast to your child.
Can Oculast be used for other conditions?
Oculast has also been prescribed to treat nasal polyps and eosinophilic esophagitis. Speak with your doctor if you think Oculast may be beneficial for another condition.
How long does it take for Oculast to work?
It usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks for Oculast to reach its full effect. Do not stop taking Oculast before speaking with your doctor.
Can I take Oculast with other medications?
Yes, but some medications may interact with Oculast. Always speak with your doctor before taking any new medications, including over-the-counter medications.
Should Oculast be refrigerated?
No, Oculast does not need to be refrigerated.
What is the difference between Oculast and Flonase?
Oculast is a topical nasal spray that is used to treat allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and hives. Flonase is a corticosteroid nasal spray used to treat allergies and other respiratory conditions.
Are there any generic forms of Oculast available?
Yes. Oculast is available in a generic form from several manufacturers.
Can Oculast be used to treat asthma?
No, Oculast is not approved for the treatment of asthma.
Is Oculast available over the counter?
No. Oculast is a prescription medication and is not available over the counter.
Can Oculast be used to treat hay fever?
Yes. Oculast is approved for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, which includes hay fever.
Can I take Oculast while pregnant?
No, Oculast should not be taken during pregnancy. Speak with your doctor before taking Oculast if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What is the recommended dosage of Oculast?
The recommended dosage of Oculast will depend on the type of product being used.Always follow the instructions on the label and speak with your doctor if you have any questions.
Can Oculast cause loss of smell?
Yes, loss of smell is a possible side effect of Oculast. Speak with your doctor if this occurs.
Does Oculast have to be taken on an empty stomach?
No. Oculast does not have to be taken on an empty stomach.
Is Oculast available as an over-the-counter eye drop?
No, Oculast is not available as an over-the-counter eye drop.
Does Oculast interact with other medications?
Yes, Oculast can potentially interact with other medications. Always speak with your doctor before taking any new medications, including over-the-counter medications.
Can Oculast be used to treat nasal congestion?
Yes, Oculast can be used to treat nasal congestion caused by allergies or sinusitis.
What is the active ingredient in Oculast?
The active ingredient in Oculast is azelastine hydrochloride.
Does Oculast cause weight gain?
No, weight gain is not a known side effect of Oculast.
Can Oculast make me drowsy?
Yes, Oculast can cause drowsiness in some people. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are feeling drowsy.
Can Oculast be used to treat itching?
Yes, Oculast can be used to treat itching caused by allergies, sinusitis or hives.
Can Oculast cause headaches?
Yes, headaches are a common side effect of Oculast.
Can I take Oculast while breastfeeding?
No, Oculast is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Speak with your doctor if you are considering taking Oculast while breastfeeding.
Can Oculast cause dry mouth?
Yes, dry mouth is a common side effect of Oculast.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Oculast?
It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Oculast. Alcohol can increase some of the side effects of Oculast.
Is Oculast an antihistamine?
Yes. Oculast is an antihistamine, which means it blocks the production of histamine to treat allergies.
Should Oculast be used long-term?
Oculast should only be used long-term if prescribed by your doctor. Do not use Oculast for a prolonged period of time without speaking with your doctor.
What are the storage instructions for Oculast?
Oculast should be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep this medication out of reach of children and pets.
How long does it take for Oculast to be effective?
It usually takes between 1 and 4 weeks for Oculast to reach its full effect. Do not stop taking Oculast before speaking with your doctor.
Can I swallow Oculast?
No, do not swallow Oculast. Oculast is to be applied to the nasal passages, eyes, or skin, depending on the product.
Is Oculast a steroid?
No, Oculast is not a steroid. It is an antihistamine that blocks the production of histamines to reduce inflammation and allergies.
Does Oculast expire?
Yes, all forms of Oculast have an expiration date. Check the expiration date on the package before each use.
How long should I take Oculast?
The length of time you should take Oculast will depend on your condition and how your body responds to the medication. Always speak with your doctor before discontinuing use of Oculast.
What is the difference between Oculast and Claritin?
Oculast is an antihistamine that is used to treat allergies, hives, and some types of sinusitis. Claritin is a non-drowsy antihistamine used to treat various types of allergies.
Can Oculast cause constipation?
No, constipation is not a known side effect of Oculast.
Does Oculast cause stomach upset?
Yes, stomach upset is a possible side effect of Oculast. Speak with your doctor if you experience any discomfort while taking Oculast.
Can Oculast cause blurred vision?
Yes, blurred vision is a possible side effect of Oculast. Speak with your doctor if you experience any vision changes while taking Oculast.