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Olopatadine - Uses - Dosages - Side Effects - Precautions

Olopatadine: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is olopatadine?

Olopatadine is an ophthalmic solution that is used to treat eye infections and allergies. It is a prescription drug that comes under different brand names including Patanol, Pazeo, and Pataday. It is an antihistamine that reduces or blocks the biochemical histamine that causes allergy manifested by irritation and watery eyes.

Olopatadine belongs to a class of medications called cell stabilizers that prevent histamine release and stop eye itching. These eye drops are used in various eye allergies and infections.

What are the uses of olopatadine?

Different substances or allergens such as pollen, grass, dander, ragweed or animal fur can cause allergic conjunctivitis and result in red and itchy eyes. Your doctor will prescribe olopatadine ophthalmic drops to help relieve eye allergies. These eye drops block the release of the natural chemical histamine and decrease the inflammation, redness and itchiness in the eye.

Nonetheless, some eye infections can differ, and one should consult an expert before putting these eye drops in their eye.

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What are the side effects of olopatadine?

Olopatadine may not suit everyone and cause some common side effects. These side effects may include:

  • Stinging in the eye
  • Blurred vision
  • Dry eye
  • Headache
  • Abnormal sensation in the eye
  • Severe irritation in the eyes
  • Eye swelling
  • Red eyes
  • Severe discomfort

Some major symptoms that need medical attention may include:

  • Eye pain or itching
  • Change in eyesight

If your symptoms persist, consult your doctor immediately.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Olopatadine

1. How long can I use olopatadine?

Olopatadine eye drops are prescribed to relieve red, itchy eyes caused by an allergic reaction. Your doctor will prescribe the number of drops you have to put daily and for how many days based on the severity of the condition. Moreover, they will also ask you to continue or stop the olopatadine usage based on your improvement.

2. What are olopatadine eye drops used for?

Olopatadine eye drops are the class stabilizers that decrease inflammation and redness of the eye. It is prescribed in cases of allergic conjunctivitis caused by an interaction with pollen, grass, dander, ragweed or animal fur. The eye drops to block the release of histamine chemicals that cause the allergy symptoms.

3. How fast does olopatadine work?

According to a published study, the itching was reduced within 30 minutes after putting olopatadine eye drops. It is an excellent, strong, and safe anti-allergic drug that relieves discomfort in patients with allergic conjunctivitis. In most cases, people see positive results quickly, while it may take some time in others.

4. Is olopatadine an antihistamine?

Yes, olopatadine is an antihistamine that blocks the activity of histamine and reduces allergy symptoms. Histamine is a natural chemical that the body releases after coming into contact with any allergens. Once antihistamine does its job, the body no longer releases histamine, and you can see a reduction in your symptoms.

5. Is olopatadine safe during pregnancy?

If you have an eye allergy or an infection during pregnancy, consult an expert before using olopatadine eye drops. Like all medicines, you should talk to your doctor before consuming olopatadine. Your doctor will prescribe olopatadine eye drops if their benefits outweigh their risks and if it's safe for you and your baby.

6. Can I use olopatadine daily?

The number of olopatadine eye drops per day depends upon the type of allergy and the severity of the condition. Usually, it is one drop per day for itchy and red eyes. You need to consult a doctor and take proper guidance for correct doses. They’ll prescribe you the required dosage.

7. Is olopatadine better than ketotifen?

Yes, a published study proved that olopatadine reduced allergic conjunctivitis between the 4th day and the 15th day, whereas ketotifen reduced it after 15 days. In conclusion, olopatadine relieves the symptoms quicker than ketotifen. Moreover, consult an expert before taking any of the medications. He will guide you with their uses, side effects and results.

8. Can I take olopatadine while breastfeeding?

If you are breastfeeding and you have an eye allergy, talk to the doctor first. Although olopatadine eye drops don’t show any side effects while breastfeeding, it is best to consult an expert before taking any medicines in general.

9. Can I consume alcohol with olopatadine

Alcohol is not good for your health, and it is always good to quit or limit its consumption. There is no interaction found between the consumption of alcohol and olopatadine. As one is an eye drop and the other goes in your stomach, there are no chances of the interaction. However, alcohol can affect your immune system and increase your recovery time.

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      References
      1. Uchio E. Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis with olopatadine hydrochloride eye drops. Clin Ophthalmol. 2008;2(3):525-531. 
      2. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/olopatadine-ophthalmic.html 
      3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a602025.html
      4. https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/medicine/olopatadine

      Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.