Optivar Eye Drops to treat itching eyes caused by allergies. It works by blocking certain natural substances called histamines responsible for allergic symptoms.

Follow your doctor's directions on the prescription. To use Optivar Eye Drops:

• First, wash your hands.
• Tilt the head back and, pressing your finger gently on the skin just beneath the lower eyelid, pull the lower eyelid away from the eye to make a space.
• Drop the Optivar into this space. Let go of the eyelid and gently close the eyes.
• Keep the eyes closed for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the medicine to be absorbed by the eye. Do not blink.
• Immediately after using the eye drops, please wash your hands to remove any medicine.
• Do not touch the applicator tip on any surface to keep the Optivar Eye Drops germ-free. Also, keep the container tightly closed.

Before using Optivar Eye Drops, tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you are allergic to Optivar or any other medications.
• Prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking,
• If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. 

You should not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following Optivar Eye Drops side effects continue or are bothersome:

More common

• Bitter taste in the mouth
• Headaches
• Temporary eye burning or stinging

Less common

• Burning, dry or itching eyes
• Blurred vision, temporary
• Chills
• Eye discharge or excessive tearing
• Itching skin
• Joint pain

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may disappear during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your healthcare professional can tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. 

How do Optivar Eye Drops work?

Optivar Eye Drops work quickly to relieve itchy eyes caused by allergies in your eyes to block histamine, a chemical that causes itching.

What should you avoid while using Optivar Eye Drops?

The preservative in Optivar Eye Drops, benzalkonium chloride, can be absorbed by soft contact lenses and cause damage. It's best not to wear contacts if your eyes are red. 

What are the possible side effects of Optivar Eye Drops?

Optivar Eye Drops may temporarily sting or burn your eyes for a minute or two after use. Temporary blurred vision, headache, or a bitter taste in your mouth may also occur. Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly if these effects last or worsen.