Bepreve™ (
bepotastine besilate) is a prescription medication approved for treating eye itching caused by
allergies. It comes in the form of an eye drop.
Bepreve is manufactured by Bausch & Lomb, Inc., for ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Bepreve is part of a class of drugs known as H1 receptor antagonists, commonly known as antihistamines. It works by blocking a specific type of histamine receptor in the body known as H1 receptors. Since allergic reactions are partly caused by the release of histamine from certain cells in the body, Bepreve can help relieve or prevent
allergy symptoms.
In addition to blocking histamine receptors, Bepreve seems to decrease the release of histamine from cells in the body.
In clinical studies, this medication was shown to relieve itching of the eyes due to allergies.
The studies showed that Bepreve was more effective than a placebo eye drop (the same formulation, minus the active ingredient) for relieving eye itching.
When and How to Take Bepreve
General considerations to keep in mind when taking this medicine include the following:
- The medication comes in the form of an eye drop. It is usually used in each eye twice a day.
- In order to prevent contamination of the medicine, do not touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including the surface of the eye.
- If you wear soft contact lenses, you must remove them to use the drops. In order to prevent the lens from absorbing the medication, be sure to wait 10 minutes after using the drops before reinserting the lens. Do not wear your contact lenses if your eye is still red.
- For Bepreve to work properly, it must be taken as directed.
There is only one standard recommended dosage for this product. As is always the case, do not adjust this amount unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.
Side Effects of Bepreve
Just like any medicine, Bepreve can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Some people tolerate it quite well.
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
Common side effects of Bepreve include but are not limited to:
- A mild but noticeable taste in the mouth
- Eye irritation
- Headache
- Common cold symptoms, such as a runny or stuffy nose or a sore throat.
(Click Bepreve Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
Prior to taking this medication, talk to your healthcare provider if you:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Bepreve?
It is not clear what exactly to expect from an overdose with this medication. If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should This Medicine Be Stored?
Bepreve should be stored between 36°F and 77°F. Bepreve 0.2 mL single-use containers should be stored between 59°F and 77°F. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose of Bepreve, simply take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Bepreve comes in one strength (1.5%) in a 10-mL bottle.
