levocabastine ophthalmic

Generic name: levocabastine ophthalmic [ lee-voe-CAB-as-teen ]
Brand name: Livostin
Drug class: Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

What is levocabastine ophthalmic?

Levocabastine is an antiallergic medication. It inhibits processes in the body that cause allergic symptoms after exposure to an allergen.

Levocabastine ophthalmic is used to treat ocular (eye) symptoms of allergic conditions, such as inflammation, itching, watering, and burning.

Levocabastine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about levocabastine ophthalmic?

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Apply light pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) after each drop to prevent the fluid from draining down your tear duct.

Shake the suspension well before each dose.

Who should not use levocabastine ophthalmic?

Do not use levocabastine ophthalmic if you have a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in your eye unless you are also receiving proper anti-infective treatment.

Levocabastine ophthalmic is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether levocabastine ophthalmic will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

Levocabastine passes into breast milk. Its effects on a nursing baby are not known. Do not use levocabastine ophthalmic without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I use levocabastine ophthalmic?

Use levocabastine eyedrops exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before using your eyedrops.

To apply the eyedrops:

• Shake the drops gently to be sure the medicine is well mixed. Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct. If you are using more than one drop in the same eye or drops in both eyes, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops.

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it.

Store levocabastine ophthalmic at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the bottle properly capped.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next one as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, call an emergency room or poison control center near you. If the drops have been ingested (taken by mouth), drink plenty of fluid and call an emergency center for advice.

What should I avoid while using levocabastine ophthalmic?

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Levocabastine ophthalmic contains a preservative (benzalkonium chloride), so do not wear contact lenses during therapy with with this medication. Contact lenses can be used again after therapy with levocabastine has ended.

Avoid other eyedrops unless your doctor approves.

Levocabastine ophthalmic side effects

Serious side effects are not expected with this medication.

Less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to use levocabastine ophthalmic and talk to your doctor if you experience

• burning, stinging, or irritation of the eyes;

• watering, itching, or redness of the eyes;

• blurred vision;

• dry or puffy eyes;

• headache;

• nausea;

• a rash; or

• fatigue.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Levocabastine ophthalmic dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis:

1 drop instilled into each eye 2-4 times a day.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis:

>5 years: 1 drop instilled into each eye 2-4 times a day.

What other drugs will affect levocabastine ophthalmic?

Avoid other eye medications unless they are approved by your doctor.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with levocabastine ophthalmic. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Further information

• Your pharmacist has additional information about levocabastine ophthalmic written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?

Levocabastine ophthalmic is available with a prescription under the brand name Livostin in a 0.05% suspension formulation. Other brand or generic formulations of this medication may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 2.05. Revision Date: 2/13/04 4:03:45 PM.