Launch of Rohto Algard Epinastine Eye Drops,
a new allergy eye drop from the Algard® brand containing the same active ingredient, epinastine hydrochloride, as the prescription version
February 10, 2026
ROHTO Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture; President: Hidetoshi Seki) will launch a new eye drop from the "Algard" brand, which holds a 70% share of the allergy eye drop market *1, containing the anti-allergy ingredient epinastine hydrochloride, the same ingredient as in prescription drugs, on Thursday, March 12, 2026.
This product, which was previously a prescription drug, has now become the first to be approved as an OTC drug that can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription, with the aim of creating an environment where people suffering from allergic symptoms such as painful itchy eyes can more easily choose appropriate care.
Algard, which has been dealing with allergy symptoms for many years, now offers a new option.
*1: (Source) Intage SRI Plus, (Period) 2024/12/30 week to 2025/04/21 week
Product launch background
Our company has been conducting research into hay fever for many years since launching Rohto Eye Drops Alguard, an eye drop for allergies, in 1987. In recent years, many people have been suffering from allergy symptoms, including hay fever *2, and symptoms such as itchy and bloodshot eyes in particular are thought to have a significant impact on the quality of daily life.
On the other hand, there is a growing need for over-the-counter medications to treat symptoms because people do not have time to visit a medical institution. In response to this situation, we have been working to switch the anti-allergic ingredient "epinastine hydrochloride," which has been used in medical settings, to an OTC version.
Going forward, the Rohto Group will continue to promote self-medication in a variety of areas, with the aim of extending healthy life expectancy.
*2: Ministry of the Environment "Hay Fever Environmental Health Manual" 2022
Product features
Same ingredients and amounts as medical grade products *3
It contains the same anti-allergic ingredient, epinastine hydrochloride, as prescription pharmaceuticals, in the same amount.
*3: Epinastine hydrochloride 0.05%
Take action early for quick care!
It is most effective when used 1 to 2 weeks before pollen starts to fly, and when used early when symptoms are still mild.
Can be used from 1 year old / Contains no benzalkonium chloride or parabens as preservatives
It can be used by children aged 1 year and over, and supports self-care for people of all ages who suffer from allergies.
Product overview
| Product name |
Rohto Alguard Epinastine Eye Drops |
| image |
 |
| classification |
Prescription-required medicines |
| Sales name |
Rohto Alguard Epinastine Eye Drops |
| capacity |
5mL x 2 bottles |
| price |
1,800 yen (excluding tax) |
| component |
Epinastine hydrochloride 0.05%
*Additives include sodium chloride, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, sodium hydrogen phosphate, boric acid, sodium edetate, and pH adjuster. |
| Efficacy and effectiveness |
Relief of eye allergy symptoms caused by pollen, house dust, etc., such as bloodshot eyes, itchy eyes, blurred vision (when there is a lot of eye mucus, etc.), watery eyes, and foreign body sensation (gritty sensation) |
| Usage/Dosage |
Apply one drop to your eyes four times a day (morning, afternoon, evening, and before bedtime). |
- "Alguard" is a registered trademark of ROHTO Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.