GENERIC NAME: OLOPATADINE - OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION (oh-low-PAT-uh-deen off-THAL-mick)

BRAND NAME(S): Patanol

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is an antihistamine used to treat itching and redness in the eyes due to allergies. This medication is not recommended for the treatment of eye irritation due to wearing contact lenses.

HOW TO USE: Apply this medication in the affected eye(s) usually twice a day (6 to 8 hours between doses), or as directed by your doctor. 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. Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and apply the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the inside corner of your eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Wait at least 5 minutes in between applying this medicine and any other eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments) you may be using. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, blurred vision, burning/stinging/redness/dryness of the eye, eyelid swelling, a feeling as if something is in your eye, or changes in taste may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unusual weakness. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.