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Olopatadine ophthalmic

Generic name: olopatadine ophthalmic [ OH-loe-PAT-a-deen ]
Brand names: Pataday Once Daily Relief, Pataday Once Daily Relief Extra Strength, Pataday Twice A Day Relief, Pataday, Pazeo, Patanol, Clear Eyes Allergy Itch Relief
Dosage form: ophthalmic solution (0.1%; 0.2%; 0.7%)
Drug class: Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jul 27, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is olopatadine ophthalmic?

Olopatadine is an antihistamine that reduces the natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of itching or watery eyes.

Olopatadine ophthalmic (for the eye) is used to treat eye itching caused by allergies.

Olopatadine ophthalmic may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Olopatadine ophthalmic side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

olopatadine ophthalmic may cause serious side effects. Stop using olopatadine ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have:

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use olopatadine ophthalmic if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if olopatadine ophthalmic is safe to use if you have any type of eye infection.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Olopatadine ophthalmic is not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.

How should I use olopatadine ophthalmic?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Do not use while wearing soft contact lenses. A preservative in this medicine could permanently stain the lenses. Use the medicine at least 15 minutes before inserting your contact lenses.

Wash your hands before using eye medication.

To apply the eye drops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye and squeeze a drop into this pocket. Close your eyes for 1 or 2 minutes.

Use only the number of drops recommended on the medicine label.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid looks cloudy or has changed colors.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Olopatadine ophthalmic dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis:

0.1% solution: 1 drop in each affected eye twice per day at an interval of 6 to 8 hours
0.2%/0.7% solution: 1 drop in each affected eye once a day

Use: Treatment of the signs and symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis

Usual Pediatric Dose for Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis:

2 years or older:
0.2%/0.7% solution: 1 drop in each affected eye once a day

3 years or older:
0.1% solution: 1 drop in each affected eye twice per day at an interval of 6 to 8 hours

Use: Treatment of the signs and symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of olopatadine ophthalmic is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

What should I avoid while using olopatadine ophthalmic?

Avoid wearing contact lenses while your eyes are red or irritated. olopatadine ophthalmic will not treat eye irritation caused by wearing contacts.

What other drugs will affect olopatadine ophthalmic?

Medicine used in the eyes is not likely to be affected by other drugs you use. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

prednisone, hydroxyzine, fluticasone nasal, cetirizine, promethazine, ketorolac ophthalmic, Zyrtec, Pataday, Patanol, Lotemax

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.