Emedastine
Class: Antiallergic Agents
- Histamine H1-receptor Antagonists
ATC Class: S03AA07
VA Class: OP900
Chemical Name: 1-(2-Ethoxyethyl)-2-(hexahydro-4-methyl-1H-1,4-diazepin-1-yl)benzimidazole fumerate (1:2)
Molecular Formula: C17H26N4O•2C4H4O4
CAS Number: 87233-62-3
Brands: Emadine
Introduction
Relatively selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist; a benzimidazole derivative.
Uses for Emedastine
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Symptomatic relief of allergic conjunctivitis.
Emedastine Dosage and Administration
Administration
Apply topically to the eye as an ophthalmic solution. Not for injection or oral use.
Ophthalmic Administration
Remove soft contact lenses prior to administration of each dose (since benzalkonium chloride preservative may be absorbed by the lenses); may reinsert lenses 10 minutes after administration if eyes are not red.
If more than one topical ophthalmic drug is used, administer the drugs at least 5 minutes apart.
Avoid contamination of the solution container.
Do not use if solution is discolored.
Dosage
Available as emedastine difumarate; dosage expressed in terms of emedastine.
Pediatric Patients
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
Children ≥3 years of age: 1 drop of a 0.05% solution in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily.
Adults
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
1 drop of a 0.05% solution in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily.
Cautions for Emedastine
Contraindications
Known hypersensitivity to emedastine or any ingredient in the formulation.
Warnings/Precautions
Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Category B.
Lactation
Distributed into milk in rats following oral administration; not known whether distributed into human milk following topical application to the eye. Use with caution.
Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy not established in children <3 years of age.
Adverse effect profile in children 3–16 years of age is similar to that in individuals ≥17 years of age.
Geriatric Use
No substantial differences in safety and efficacy relative to younger adults.
Common Adverse Effects
Headache.
Interactions for Emedastine
No formal drug interaction studies to date.
