Patanol

Generic name: Olopatadine hydrochloride

What is Patanol?

Patanol is an antihistamine that relieves the red, itchy eyes often caused by allergies.

What is the most important information I should know about Patanol?

Patanol should be used only for allergic conditions. It is not a remedy for irritation from contact lenses.

Use Patanol only in your eyes. Patanol should not be taken orally or by injection.

The safety and effectiveness of Patanol have not been established in children under 3.

Patanol is a sterile solution. Avoid allowing the tip of the bottle to touch your eye, fingers, or any other surface; serious eye infections may occur if the bottle becomes contaminated.

Do not wear contact lenses if your eyes are red. The preservative in Patanol may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. If you wear soft contact lenses and your eyes are not red, wait at least 10 minutes after applying Patanol before inserting your contact lenses.

Who should not take Patanol?

Do not take Patanol if you are allergic to the medication or any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Patanol?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Patanol. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection in your eye.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose is 1 drop in each affected eye 2 times a day. Allow 6 to 8 hours between doses.

How should I take Patanol?

Use Patanol eyedrops exactly as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands before and after using your eyedrops.

To apply the eyedrops: Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid. Position the dropper above your eye. Look up and away from the dropper. Squeeze out a drop and close your eye. Apply gentle pressure to the inside corner of your eye (near your nose) for about 1 minute to prevent the liquid from draining down your tear duct. If you are using more than one drop in the same eye, repeat the process with about 5 minutes between drops.

What should I avoid while taking Patanol?

Do not touch the dropper to any surface, including your eyes or hands. The dropper is sterile. If it becomes contaminated, it could cause an infection in your eye.

Do not use any eyedrop that is discolored or has particles in it.

Patanol contains a preservative (benzalkonium chloride); do not wear contact lenses while applying this medication. You can insert contact lenses about 10 minutes after you take a dose of Patanol.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Patanol?

If Patanol is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Always check with your doctor before combining Patanol with any other drugs, herbs, or supplements.

What are the possible side effects of Patanol?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: allergic reactions, bloodshot eyes, blurred vision, burning or stinging, changes in taste, cold-like symptoms, dry eye, headache, inflammation of the cornea, itching, nausea, runny nose, sensation of a foreign body in the eye, sinus inflammation, sore throat, swollen lids, weakness

Can I receive Patanol if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Patanol during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Patanol?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and apply the next dose as directed. Do not use a double dose of this medication.

How should I store Patanol?

Store Patanol at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep bottle tightly closed.