Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Lastacaft (alcaftadine) and Alocril (nedocromil) are both eye drops used to treat allergy-related eye symptoms, such as itching and redness. They are similar in that they both help manage allergic conjunctivitis, but they have some important differences. Lastacaft is an antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer, while Alocril is only a mast cell stabilizer. Lastacaft is available over-the-counter and is typically used once daily, whereas Alocril requires a prescription and is used twice daily. Both medications are only available in a branded version. Common side effects of Lastacaft include eye irritation and burning, while Alocril can cause headaches, eye irritation, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them and do not put them back in for 10 minutes after using Lastacraft. Wearing contact lenses while using Alocril is not recommended.
Lastacaft (alcaftadine)
Alocril (nedocromil)
Lastacaft (alcaftadine)
Alocril (nedocromil)
Summary of Lastacaft vs. Nedocromil
Summary for Antihistamine
Lastacaft (alcaftadine) is a once-daily anti-allergy eye drop. It was previously available only by prescription, but you can now get it over the counter.
Summary for Mast cell stabilizer
Prescription only
Alocril (nedocromil) is an eye drop for eye-related allergy symptoms, such as itchiness or watery eyes. Typically, you place 1 to 2 drops into your eyes twice daily. But it's not a first-choice option for allergy symptoms. Some common side effects of this medication include headaches and eye irritation.
Indications of Lastacaft vs. Nedocromil
Indications for
•Eye itching or redness due to allergies (allergic conjunctivitis)
Indications for
•Itchy or watery eyes from allergy
Pros and Cons of Lastacaft vs. Nedocromil
Pros and Const for Antihistamine
Pros
•Used just once daily
•Can be given to children as young as 2 years of age
•Doesn't leave weird aftertaste like the similar medication called Bepreve (bepotastine)
Cons
•Can cause eye pain and irritation
•Not for itching caused by infections or contact lenses