Why is this medication prescribed?

Patanol is an ophthalmic solution (eye drops) that contains the active ingredient olopatadine. It is primarily prescribed to treat allergic conjunctivitis, which is an inflammation of the conjunctiva (the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids) due to an allergic reaction.

Allergic conjunctivitis can be caused by various allergens such as pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and dust mites. Symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis include redness, itching, tearing, and swelling of the eyes.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines for using Patanol:

• Wash Hands: Before applying the medication, make sure your hands are clean.
• Remove Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using Patanol. Wait at least 10 minutes after applying the medication before reinserting your lenses.
• Administer Eye Drops: Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and instill the prescribed number of drops. Be careful not to touch the tip of the dropper to your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
• Close Eyes: After applying the eye drops, close your eyes gently for a few moments. If you are using Patanol in both eyes, repeat the process for the other eye.
• Wipe Excess: If there is excess medication around the eye, gently wipe it away with a clean tissue.
• Replace Cap: Replace the cap on the eye drop bottle immediately after use.
• Frequency of Use: Patanol is typically used twice a day, with about 6 to 8 hours between doses. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage and frequency.
• Continue Use: Use Patanol regularly as prescribed, even if your symptoms improve. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting your doctor.

It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and report any unusual or severe side effects promptly. If you have any concerns or questions about the use of Patanol, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

Patanol (olopatadine) is primarily indicated for the treatment of ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis. It is specifically designed for use in the eyes to alleviate symptoms caused by allergens. However, it’s important to note that medications should be used only for their intended purposes as directed by a healthcare professional.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be taken when using Patanol, and it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about your medical history, current medications, and any allergies you may have. Here are some general precautions to consider:

• Inform Your Doctor: Before using Patanol, inform your doctor or eye care specialist about any existing medical conditions, especially if you have a history of eye problems (such as glaucoma) or if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Allergies: If you are allergic to olopatadine or any other ingredients in Patanol, let your healthcare provider know. Allergic reactions can include itching, rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Patanol, and wait at least 10 minutes before reinserting them. Certain preservatives in eye drops can be absorbed by soft contact lenses.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. This includes other eye medications. Drug interactions can occur, and your doctor can determine the safety of using Patanol in combination with other drugs.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Patanol during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well established. Consult your healthcare provider to weigh the potential benefits against any potential risks.
• Children and Elderly: The safety and effectiveness of Patanol in children under 2 years of age have not been established. It should be used with caution in the elderly population.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Patanol may cause blurred vision temporarily after application. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision clears.
• Medical Conditions: If you have certain medical conditions, such as kidney or liver problems, consult your doctor before using Patanol.

Always use Patanol exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you experience any side effects or have concerns about its use, contact your doctor promptly. This information is a general guide, and individual circumstances may warrant specific recommendations from a healthcare professional.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions associated with the use of Patanol. However, if you have any concerns or questions about your diet while using this medication, it’s advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Patanol, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Patanol (olopatadine) eye drops may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects are generally mild and may include:

• Eye irritation or burning sensation
• Dry eyes
• Stinging or itching of the eyes
• Blurred vision
• Taste changes (a bitter or unusual taste in the mouth, as the medication can be swallowed when applied to the eyes)

These side effects are usually temporary and may improve as your eyes become accustomed to the medication. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s advisable to contact your healthcare provider.

While uncommon, some individuals may experience more serious side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe eye pain
• Swelling or redness of the eye
• Vision changes or other eye problems
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing

It’s essential to report any unusual or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance on whether to continue using the medication.

This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects, and individuals may react differently to medications. If you have specific concerns or experience unexpected symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice. Always follow the prescribed dosage and instructions for use provided by your doctor.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Patanol:

• Storage:
  • Store Patanol eye drops at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
  • Do not freeze the medication.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused Patanol eye drops as instructed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so. Proper disposal helps prevent environmental contamination.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose, contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Overdose symptoms may include severe eye irritation, redness, or other unusual symptoms. If you suspect an overdose or have concerns about using Patanol, do not hesitate to seek medical help.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always use Patanol according to your healthcare provider’s instructions. Do not change the dosage or frequency without consulting your doctor.
• Regular Eye Exams: Continue with regular eye check-ups as recommended by your eye care professional, even if your symptoms improve with Patanol.
• Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper to any surface, including the eyes or hands, to prevent contamination.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers (doctors, surgeons, dentists, etc.) about your use of Patanol before undergoing any medical procedures or surgeries.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.
• Contact Lenses: Remove contact lenses before using Patanol and wait at least 10 minutes before reinserting them.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Patanol may cause temporary blurred vision after application. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your vision clears.
• Consultation with Healthcare Provider: If you have any concerns or questions about Patanol or your eye condition, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.

Remember, the information provided here is a general guide, and individual circumstances may vary. Always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider and read the medication’s accompanying package insert for specific instructions.