Optilast Eye Drops

"Optilast Eye Drops are frequently prescribed for patients experiencing ocular symptoms of allergic reactions, such as hay fever or sensitivity to dust mites and pet dander. By acting directly on the eye's surface, this medication provides targeted relief from inflammation and itching. At Mail my Meds, we ensure your prescription is managed with the highest clinical standards to help you manage your allergy symptoms effectively." - Rachael Clarke MRCPharm MFRPSI FRSPH (GPHC Number: 2061366)

You can buy Optilast Eye Drops through our convenient online consultation process which involves a short health questionnaire reviewed by a registered prescriber. Once your consultation is approved, your medication is dispensed and shipped directly from our pharmacy (GPHC Number: 9011560) in discreet packaging to ensure your privacy. This streamlined service allows you to manage your eye health without the need for a face-to-face GP appointment.

The price of Optilast Eye Drops depends on the quantity you require to manage your allergy symptoms throughout the season. You can view our competitive pricing and available options during the selection process before you begin your clinical consultation. Using an online pharmacy like Mail my Meds often provides a cost-effective alternative to traditional private prescriptions while maintaining the same high level of pharmaceutical care.

We provide a range of delivery options to ensure you receive your eye drops quickly and securely at your preferred UK address. Whether you need your treatment urgently for a sudden hay fever flare-up or as a repeat supply for year-round allergies, we offer tracked shipping services. All orders are sent in plain packaging to maintain confidentiality from the moment they leave our pharmacy.

Optilast is a prescription-only antihistamine eye drop used to treat allergic conjunctivitis, a condition where the eyes become red, itchy and watery due to allergens. It is commonly used for seasonal allergies like hay fever (pollen) and perennial allergies caused by indoor triggers such as house dust mites, mould or animal fur. This medication is suitable for adults and children, with specific age guidelines depending on the type of allergy being treated.

The active ingredient in Optilast Eye Drops is Azelastine Hydrochloride at a concentration of 0.05% (0.5 mg/ml). Azelastine is a potent, long-acting antiallergic compound that belongs to the antihistamine family. It works by preventing the effects of histamine and other inflammatory substances that the body produces during an allergic reaction, effectively reducing redness and swelling on the ocular surface.

Many patients report that Optilast provides rapid cooling relief from the intense itching and burning associated with hay fever, often within 15 to 30 minutes of application. While user experiences can vary, the direct application to the eye is frequently praised for being more effective at targeting ocular symptoms than oral tablets alone. Some users note a temporary bitter taste after use, which is a common and harmless characteristic of the medication as it drains through the tear ducts.

You should always read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication for a comprehensive guide on safety and usage. The PIL contains vital details regarding the chemical composition, storage instructions and a full list of potential side effects. Keeping this leaflet for reference throughout your treatment course ensures you are well-informed about the clinical profile of Azelastine Eye Drops.

Optilast works by blocking H1 receptors and inhibiting the release of histamine from mast cells in the eye tissues. When you encounter an allergen, your immune system releases histamine, which causes blood vessels to leak and leads to the classic symptoms of itching and puffiness. By preventing this release and blocking the receptors, Optilast stops the allergic cascade at the source, providing sustained relief for up to 12 hours per dose.

To use the treatment correctly, follow these steps to ensure the solution stays sterile and is absorbed effectively:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly and gently wipe away any moisture from around your eyes.
2. Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
3. Hold the dropper bottle above the eye without letting the tip touch your eye or eyelashes.
4. Squeeze one drop into the pocket and release the eyelid.
5. Press the inner corner of your eye (near the nose) for one minute while keeping your eye closed to prevent the drop from draining away.
6. Repeat the process for the other eye and replace the bottle cap immediately.

The standard dosage for Optilast Eye Drops is one drop in each affected eye twice daily, typically in the morning and evening. For seasonal hay fever, this can be used by adults and children aged 4 years and over. For perennial (year-round) allergies, it is suitable for those aged 12 years and over. In severe cases, your prescriber may advise increasing the frequency to four times a day, but you should not exceed this without medical guidance.

Most people use Optilast without significant issues, though some may experience mild and temporary side effects. These typically resolve quickly as your eyes adjust to the drops.

You should not use Optilast if you are allergic to Azelastine Hydrochloride or any of the other ingredients, such as benzalkonium chloride. If you wear soft contact lenses, you must remove them before applying the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them, as the preservative can discolour the lenses. Consult a professional if your symptoms affect only one eye, if your vision is impaired or if you experience significant eye pain, as these may be signs of an infection rather than an allergy.

Optilast is often preferred over standard over-the-counter drops like Opticrom (sodium cromoglicate) because it provides both immediate relief and preventative action. While oral antihistamines like Cetirizine or Fexofenadine are excellent for general symptoms like sneezing, Optilast is more effective for isolated, severe eye irritation because it delivers the active ingredient directly to the site of inflammation. It is a potent prescription-strength option for those who do not find sufficient relief from standard pharmacy-shelf products.

Can I use Optilast for an eye infection?

No, Optilast is specifically for allergic reactions and will not treat bacterial or viral eye infections like conjunctivitis caused by a virus. If your eye is producing a thick discharge or is painful, seek medical advice.

How long can I use the bottle once opened?

You must discard the bottle four weeks after opening, even if there is still liquid left, to prevent the risk of bacterial contamination. It is helpful to write the date you opened the bottle on the packaging.

Can I use these drops while pregnant?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult with your doctor or one of our prescribers before using Optilast to ensure it is the most appropriate treatment for you.

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not replace seeking advice from a medical professional. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalised medical advice regarding your specific condition and to ensure this treatment is safe for you.

Our content is regularly reviewed by our team of medical experts and clinical pharmacists to ensure all information is up to date and accurate. We adhere to strict UK clinical guidelines to provide you with reliable health information you can trust.