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Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common, abnormal rhythm of the heart.
The heart contracts (beats) and pumps blood with a regular rhythm, for example,
at a rate of 60 beats per minute there is a beat every second. The heart may
beat faster or slower with a shorter or longer interval between beats, but at
any one rate the interval between beats is constant. This regular rhythm occurs
as a result of regular electrical discharges (currents) that travel through the
heart and cause the muscle of the heart to contract. In atrial fibrillation, the electrical
discharges are irregular and rapid and, as a result, the heart beats irregularly
and, usually, rapidly.
Atrial fibrillation is common; half a million new cases are diagnosed yearly
in the U.S., and billions of dollars are spent annually on its diagnosis and
treatment.
Normal function of the he...
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IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
ALCAFTADINE - OPHTHALMIC
(al-KAF-ta-deen)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Lastacaft
USES: This medication is used to prevent itching of the eyes due to allergies. Alcaftadine is an antihistamine. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that causes allergic symptoms.
Do not use this medication to treat red or irritated eyes due to wearing contact lenses. Contact your doctor for further instructions if this occurs.
HOW TO USE: Apply this medication in both eyes as directed by your doctor, usually once a day.
Wash your hands before each use. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface.
The preservative in this product may be absorbed by contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication and keep them out of your eyes for at least 10 minutes after each dose. Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red.
Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and place one drop into the pouch as directed by your doctor. Look downward, gently close your eyes, and place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose). Apply gentle pressure for 1 to 2 minutes before opening your eyes. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink or rub your eye. Repeat these steps for your other eye.
Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use.
If you are using another kind of eye medication (for example, other drops or ointments), wait at least 5 minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the drops to enter the eye.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
Do not use this product if it becomes contaminated (for example, drops turn a dark color). Using contaminated eye medication can cause infection, serious damage to the eye, and loss of vision. Contact your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve in a few days or if it worsens.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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