What it is used for
- Allergic conjunctivitis with redness
- Itchy, red, watery eyes from hay fever and other allergies
How it works
Antazoline is an antihistamine that calms allergic itching and watering, while xylometazoline narrows surface eye blood vessels to reduce redness. Together they relieve both the itch and the redness of an allergic eye reaction.
How it is taken
Comes as eye drops, available over the counter in some regions. A drop is placed into the affected eye(s). Wash your hands first and keep the dropper tip clean. Use only for short periods exactly as the label or pharmacist directs, because the decongestant part can cause rebound redness with overuse.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Brief stinging or burning on application
- Temporary blurred vision
- Dry eyes
- Dilated pupils
- Rebound redness with overuse
Serious effects — get help
- Eye pain, persistent redness or vision changes
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as facial swelling, rash or breathing difficulty
- Fast or irregular heartbeat or dizziness
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Other eye drops (space them apart; ask a pharmacist)
- Certain blood pressure, heart or antidepressant medicines (tell your clinician)
- Contact lenses (avoid wearing during use unless advised)
Who should take care
- Do not use long term because of rebound redness
- Avoid in glaucoma or certain eye conditions unless approved by a clinician
- Tell a pharmacist about heart, thyroid or blood pressure problems
- Keep out of reach of children
- Tell your clinician if pregnant or breastfeeding