Share: 
Optivar® (azelastine ophthalmic solution) is a prescription eye drop used for the treatment of eye allergies. In particular, this medication is approved for treating itchy eyes caused by allergies (known medically as allergic conjunctivitis).
(Click Optivar Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
Optivar is manufactured by Patheon UK, Ltd. (6 mL size), or Catalent Pharma Solutions (0.2 mL size) and is marketed and distributed by Meda Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Optivar is part of a class of drugs called antihistamines. Specifically, it is an H1 receptor antagonist. This means that it blocks a specific type of histamine receptor in the body (known as H1 receptors). Because allergic reactions are partly caused by the release of histamine from certain cells in the body, Optivar can help relieve or prevent allergy symptoms.
In addition to blocking histamine receptors, Optivar also seems to decrease the release of histamine from the cells in the body and may also inhibit other substances (such as leukotrienes), which are produced by the body in response to an allergen.
In clinical studies, Optivar was shown to prevent and relieve itching of the eyes due to allergies. In these studies, a dose of this medication was shown to start working quickly (within three minutes) and last for about eight hours.
Other Articles in This eMedTV Presentation
eMedTV Links
Copyright © 2006-2013 Clinaero, Inc.
eMedTV serves only as an informational resource. This site does not dispense medical advice or advice of any kind. Site users seeking medical advice about their specific situation should consult with their own physician. Click Terms of Use for more information.
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.
eMedTV serves only as an informational resource. This site does not dispense medical advice or advice of any kind. Site users seeking medical advice about their specific situation should consult with their own physician. Click Terms of Use for more information.
This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information:
verify here.