Should I Use Eye Drops for My Eye Allergy Symptoms?
Allergy Eye Drops – Uses, Effectiveness and Concerns
FDA-approved allergy eye drops are still used when clinically indicated. They can be effective and are generally considered safe and well tolerated. They manage allergy symptoms including itching and redness of the eye, as well as tearing. These medications work by inhibiting the action of histamine and preventing the release of inflammatory mediators. Allergy eye drops should be sterile to reduce the risk of contamination and eye infections. Preservatives can help to prevent microbial contamination. There are several effective topical eye drops for the treatment of allergy eye symptoms. The FDA closely monitors eye drops in the marketplace to assess adverse side effects. In the past, recalls have been recommended for contamination, lack of sterility and adverse side effects (e.g., eye infections). The appropriate choice of a topical allergy eye drop should be discussed with a healthcare professional. Recalls of specific allergy eye drops can be discussed and avoided when necessary.
Nasal spray options for allergic rhinitis can also provide effective relief of allergy eye symptoms. For example, the use of a topical nasal corticosteroid (e.g. fluticasone) can be effective in the treatment of allergy eye symptoms. In addition, antihistamine nasal sprays (e.g., azelastine, olopatadine) may provide some relief for allergy eye symptoms as a secondary benefit in patients with allergic rhinitis. They are not the most effective treatment of these symptoms. For direct treatment of allergy eye symptoms, approved ophthalmic formulations (eye drops) of these topical antihistamines are the preferred treatment option.
John M. James, MD, is a board-certified allergist. He is also President of Food Allergy Consulting and Education Services, LLC. He has worked as a medical specialist in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology for over 30 years. Dr. James received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee. He is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
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