Bepotastine ophthalmic

Generic name: bepotastine ophthalmic [ BEP-oh-TAS-teen-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand name: Bepreve
Dosage form: ophthalmic solution (1.5%)
Drug class: Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Feb 26, 2025. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is bepotastine ophthalmic?

Bepotastine ophthalmic (for the eye) is an antihistamine that is used to treat itchy eyes caused by allergies.

bepotastine ophthalmic should not be used to treat eye discomfort caused by wearing contact lenses.

Bepotastine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Bepotastine ophthalmic side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using bepotastine ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have severe eye irritation when using the eye drops.

Common side effects of bepotastine ophthalmic may include:

• mild eye irritation;

• stuffy nose, sore throat;

• headache; or

• unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use bepotastine if you are allergic to it.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Bepotastine ophthalmic is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.

How should I use bepotastine ophthalmic?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in bepotastine ophthalmic could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.

Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Store at room temperature. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Bepotastine ophthalmic dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis:

Instill 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice a day

Use: For the treatment of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Conjunctivitis:

2 years or older:

Instill 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice a day

Use: For the treatment of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using bepotastine ophthalmic?

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

What other drugs will affect bepotastine ophthalmic?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

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

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