Patanol is a prescription eye drop specifically formulated to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. This condition, often triggered by allergens like pollen, can lead to itchy, red, and watery eyes. This article explores how Patanol works, the proper way to use it, and important safety information to consider.
What Patanol Is and How It Works
Patanol, or olopatadine ophthalmic solution, functions as an antihistamine eye drop. Olopatadine is a selective H1-receptor antagonist, blocking histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions. This action helps to reduce immediate allergic responses such as itching and redness in the eyes.
Beyond its antihistamine properties, olopatadine also acts as a mast cell stabilizer. Mast cells are immune cells that release histamine and other inflammatory mediators when exposed to allergens. By stabilizing these cells, Patanol prevents the release of these substances, reducing the overall allergic and inflammatory response. This dual mechanism addresses both immediate and ongoing aspects of allergic conjunctivitis, relieving symptoms like itching, redness, and watery eyes.
How to Use Patanol
Proper administration of Patanol eye drops ensures effectiveness and avoids contamination. Wash hands thoroughly. Remove any loose tamper-evident collar after uncapping.
To apply, tilt your head back and pull down your lower eyelid to create a pocket. Hold the dropper over your eye, avoiding contact with the tip, and squeeze one drop into the pocket. Close your eye for one to two minutes to allow absorption, avoiding excessive blinking or rubbing.
Patanol 0.1% is typically prescribed as one drop in each affected eye twice daily, 6 to 8 hours apart. If a dose is missed, apply it as soon as remembered. If it’s near the next dose, skip the missed one and continue your regular schedule; do not double dose.
Store the bottle tightly closed at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Discard any remaining solution 28 days after opening to prevent contamination.
Safety Information for Patanol
Patanol generally causes mild, temporary side effects like headache, blurred vision, or a temporary burning/stinging sensation. Other effects may include dry eye, irritation, eyelid swelling, or a foreign body sensation. If these effects persist or worsen, contact a healthcare professional.
Certain precautions should be observed when using Patanol. If you wear soft contact lenses, remove them before applying drops, as the preservative benzalkonium chloride can be absorbed, causing irritation or discoloration. Wait at least 10 to 15 minutes after instilling Patanol before reinserting your contact lenses.
If your vision becomes temporarily blurred after using the drops, refrain from driving or operating machinery until your vision clears. Patanol is contraindicated for those with known hypersensitivity or allergy to olopatadine hydrochloride or any other ingredient. Consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or persistent side effects.