Optivar - azelastine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution 0.005%For fast, long-lasting relief from itchy allergy eyes  
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OPTIVAR FAQs
Q: How do allergens cause allergic conjunctivitis?
A: Allergic conjunctivitis is an oversensitivity to a normally harmless substance (allergen). After an allergen gets into your eyes, your immune system triggers the release of antibodies (immunoglobulin E - IgE for short).1

These antibodies attach themselves to cells that release a chemical called histamine (hís-ta-mean). Histamine makes blood vessels in the eye swell, causing the itchy, watery, irritating symptoms common to allergic conjunctivitis.1


Q: Is there a cure for allergic conjunctivitis?
A: Unfortunately, there is no cure for allergic conjunctivitis. In fact, once you have been exposed to an allergen, you may find that you have to take the medication your doctor recommends for the entire length of the allergy season if you have seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, or longer if you have perennial allergic conjunctivitis. OPTIVAR is one medication proven to relieve the itching caused by seasonal or perennial allergic conjunctivitis.


Q: What is OPTIVAR?
A: OPTIVAR is a steroid-free prescription eye drop indicated for the treatment of itching associated with allergy eyes.


Q: Who can use OPTIVAR?
A: OPTIVAR can be used by patients suffering from allergic conjunctivitis as young as 3 years of age.


Q: Does OPTIVAR have any side effects?
A: Side effects associated with OPTIVAR eye drops are generally mild. In controlled clinical studies, some patients experienced brief eye burning/stinging, headache, and bitter taste. Less than 1% of patients stopped using OPTIVAR because of these effects. OPTIVAR should not be used if you are sensitive to any of the medication's components.


Q: Will my health insurance cover OPTIVAR?
A: OPTIVAR is accepted by many managed care plans. It's best to ask your healthcare provider or your pharmacist about your specific plan.

Reference:
1. Friedlaender MH, Harris J, LaVallee N, et al. Evaluation of the onset and duration of effect of azelastine eye drops (0.05%) versus placebo in patients with allergic conjunctivitis using an allergen challenge model. Ophthalmology. 2000;107:2152-2157.




OPTIVAR is indicated for the treatment of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis in patients as young as 3 years of age.

In controlled clinical studies, some patients experienced brief eye burning/stinging, headache, and bitter taste. Less than 1% of patients stopped using OPTIVAR because of these effects. OPTIVAR should not be used if you are sensitive to any of the medication's components.

Available by prescription only. Ask your healthcare professional if OPTIVAR is right for you. Please see full Prescribing Information.

Meda Pharmaceuticals OPTIVAR® is distributed by Meda Pharmaceuticals Inc.
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OPT6035 February 2007