Drug Guide

Generic Name

Bepotastine Besilate

Brand Names Bepreve

Classification

Therapeutic: Antihistamine, Ophthalmic

Pharmacological: H1 antihistamine

FDA Approved Indications

  • Relief of ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis

Mechanism of Action

Bepotastine besilate is a selective H1 antihistamine that blocks histamine-induced allergenic responses in the eye, reducing symptoms such as itching and inflammation.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: One drop in each affected eye twice daily (morning and evening)

Pediatric: Data limited for children under 4; consult specific guidelines or product labeling

Geriatric: No specific dosage adjustments required; monitor for ocular or systemic adverse effects

Renal Impairment: No specific adjustment needed but caution advised

Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustment needed

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption due to topical administration

Distribution: Primarily local action in ocular tissues

Metabolism: Metabolized minimally; primarily excreted unchanged in tears and minimal systemic absorption

Excretion: Excreted in tears and via systemic circulation in minimal amounts

Half Life: Approximate ocular tissue half-life not specified; systemic half-life not applicable due to limited absorption

Contraindications

  • Known hypersensitivity to Bepotastine or any component of the formulation

Precautions

  • Use with caution in patients with active ocular infections or abrasions; monitor for signs of allergic reaction or hypersensitivity

Adverse Reactions - Common

  • Ocular Burning (Frequent)
  • Ocular Discomfort (Common)
  • blurred vision (Less common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

  • Anaphylaxis (Rare)
  • Eye irritation worsening (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

  • No major systemic interactions expected due to minimal absorption

Drug-Food Interactions

  • No known significant food interactions

Drug-Herb Interactions

  • Limited data; consult with healthcare provider

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Assess for ocular allergy symptoms and pre-existing ocular conditions

Diagnoses:

  • Risk for injury related to ocular reactions
  • Impaired sensory perception

Implementation: Administer drops as prescribed; instruct patient on proper instillation technique

Evaluation: Monitor for relief of symptoms and any adverse effects, especially ocular irritation or hypersensitivity

Patient/Family Teaching

  • Use drops as directed, usually twice daily
  • Avoid touching the tip of the dropper to eyes or any surfaces
  • Report any severe eye irritation, pain, or vision changes
  • Understand that some transient burning or discomfort may occur

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

  • None

Genetic Factors: No specific genetic considerations identified

Lab Test Interference: None known

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Ocular irritation, hypersensitivity reactions, or systemic allergic responses (rare)

Treatment: Discontinue use; provide symptomatic relief; emergency care if systemic allergic reaction occurs

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat

Stability: Stable up to expiration date when unopened; follow label instructions for opened bottles

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not intended for clinical use.