Monograph: |
Emedastine
Adverse Effects and Precautions
As for the antihistamines in general See Diphenhydramine Monograph.
Ocular corneal infiltrates, local irritation, photophobia, rhinitis, and headaches have been reported after use of emedastine eye drops. Treatment should be stopped if corneal infiltrates develop.
Pharmacokinetics
Emedastine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, peak plasma concentrations being attained about 3 hours after an oral dose. It is mainly metabolised in the liver to two primary metabolites 5- and 6-hydroxyemedastine which are excreted in the urine along with a small amount of unchanged drug. Small amounts of emedastine are absorbed after application to the eye. The elimination half-life is reported to be 7 hours after an oral dose and 10 hours following topical use.
Uses and Administration
Emedastine is an antihistamine. It is instilled twice daily as the fumarate as eye drops containing the equivalent of 0.05% of emedastine for the symptomatic relief of allergic conjunctivitis). It is also given by mouth in usual doses of 2 to 4 mg of the fumarate daily in two divided doses for allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and pruritic skin disorders.
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