March 23, 2022
Allergan, an AbbVie company, announced that LASTACAFT (alcaftadine ophthalmic solution 0.25%) is now available without a prescription for the estimated 40 percent of Americansi who live with ocular allergies.
In clinical studies, it was demonstrated that one drop of LASTACAFT works in as little as three minutes to provide relief from itchy, allergy eyes lasting through 16 hours.ii Following the recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval of a complete prescription to over-the-counter (OTC) switch, the original patented prescription-strength formulation of LASTACAFT is now available online and in retail stores where OTC eye drops are sold.
“Seasonal and year-round allergies affect millions of Americans, from young children to adults, and we are pleased that LASTACAFT is now available without a prescription as a safe and effective option to relieve itchy eyes caused by allergies within minutes,” said Jag Dosanjh, president, U.S. neuroscience and eyecare at AbbVie. “The LASTACAFT over-the-counter switch exemplifies our commitment to providing quality eyecare products and expands our retail eye drop portfolio, which also includes the leading REFRESH family of products for relieving dry, irritated eyes.”
Outdoor allergens, such as pollen from grass, trees and weeds, and indoor allergens including pet dander, can trigger itchy eyes. LASTACAFT is an antihistamine eye drop that temporarily relieves itchy eyes due to pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair and dander for ages two and older.
Other Articles to Explore
“Common eye allergy triggers are everywhere and can be year-round as well as seasonal with the eyes being an easy target because they are exposed and sensitive,” said Rachael Wruble, OD, Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and Immediate Past President of the North Carolina Optometric Society. “While many allergy sufferers use oral medications to manage their nasal allergy symptoms, LASTACAFT is instilled directly in the eye to block the histamines that initiate ocular itching to quickly calm the allergic response and provide relief throughout the day from itchy eyes. I’m excited that these prescription-strength drops are now accessible without a prescription for those who struggle with itchy, allergy eyes.”
LASTACAFT is available in a 5 mL multidose bottle containing a 60-day supply, as well as a twin pack with two 5 mL multidose bottles for a 120-day supply. For more information, visit lastacaft.com to learn more.
References
i. Baab S, Le PH, Kinzer EE. Allergic Conjunctivitis. [Updated 2021 Jul 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448118/
ii. Torkildsen, G., & Shedden, A. (2011). The safety and efficacy of alcaftadine 0.25% ophthalmic solution for the prevention of itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. Current Medical Research and Opinion, 27(3), 623–631. https://doi.org/10.1185/03007995.2010.548797
