Optivar Side Effects

Generic name: azelastine ophthalmic

Note: This document contains side effect information about azelastine ophthalmic. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Optivar.

Some side effects of Optivar may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to azelastine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking azelastine ophthalmic (the active ingredient contained in Optivar) hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• severe burning, stinging, itching, or eye redness after using this medication;

• eye pain;

• trouble breathing; or

• fever, chills, sore throat, flu symptoms.

Less serious side effects of azelastine ophthalmic may include:

• mild burning or stinging

• mild itching, irritation or discomfort;

• runny nose;

• blurred vision (temporary);

• headache; or

• a bitter 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.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to azelastine ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution

Ocular

Ocular side effects including transient eye burning/stinging (30%) have been reported. Other ocular side effects reported in 1% to 10% of patients were conjunctivitis, eye pain, and temporary blurring of vision.

General

General side effects including headache (15%), and bitter taste (10%) have been reported. Other side effects including fatigue and influenza-like symptoms have been reported in 1% to 10% of the patients.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects including dyspnea, pharyngitis, and rhinitis in 1% to 10% of the patients have been reported.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects including pruritus in 1% to 10% of patients have been reported.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included reports of taste perversion in 10% to 20% of study participants.

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