Patanol

Patanol Eye Drops (Olopatadine) is an ophthalmic solution which alleviates conjunctivitis (also called pink eye) caused by allergies. It works locally by blocking histamine activity in the eyes. Hay fever can often affect the eyes. This is known as seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, and it occurs when the tissue on the white part of the eye (known medically as the conjunctiva) becomes inflamed, causing it to become red, itchy and swollen. Blurred eyesight as well as watering of the eyes may also occur. In general, these symptoms are brought on by the body`s reaction to allergens, which may include pollen, grass, dust or other substances.

When the eyes are exposed to these allergens, histamine is released from the mast cells (types of blood cells containing histamine). The histamine is then able to attach to its receptors that are present on the nerve endings, which triggers the response of the inflammatory cells, producing itchy eyes and vasodilation (wider blood vessels), which is what gives the eyes their red appearance. This medicine`s mechanism of action involves both inhibiting the histamine`s release from its mast cells and the blocking of the H1 histamine receptors on the conjunctival cells. By blocking and preventing the effects of histamine at the site of the allergic reaction (the eyes), patients may experience relief from the tearing, redness, eyelid inflammation as well as the other symptoms caused by their allergy.

Patanol Eye Drops (Olopatadine) come in a 0.1 per cent strength formulation, meaning that for every 1ml of the solution, there is 1mg of the active ingredient contained. Your physician or ophthalmologist will examine your eyes to confirm that the symptoms are caused by an allergy (as conjunctivitis caused by infections will require alternative treatments). If it is confirmed as allergic conjunctivitis, a dosage schedule will be calculated for you. Adults are normally told by their physician to apply 1 drop into the eye or eyes twice per day, leaving a 6 to 8 hour gap in between each administration.

The duration of treatment will be confirmed by your physician before you commence treatment. Should any of the solution drip down onto your cheek after administration, wipe it clean using a tissue. After use, it is essential that the cap is replaced onto the top of the bottle, so as to prevent contamination. Your hands should be washed, so as to remove any of the solution that may be present on them.

Use of Patanol Eye Drops (Olopatadine) for allergic conjunctivitis may lead to side effects, such as:

• Headaches
• Blurring of eyesight
• Changes in sense of taste
• Nasal congestion or cold symptoms
• Mild ocular irritation after administration

Your physician should be updated as soon as possible if any side effects occur. Immediate medical care will be required if you suffer from severe inflammation of the eyes, extreme stinging, crusting or any other serious side effects.

Patanol Eye Drops (Olopatadine) are only indicated for use on the eyes. This solution is not for oral administration, and immediate medical assistance will be required if accidental ingestion occurs.

This medicine is used to treat conjunctivitis caused by an allergic reaction. It will not work for bacteria or viral conjunctivitis.