Patanol eye drops contain an active drug called Olopatadine hydrochloride. The drug has been approved by the FDA for treating allergen-caused eye inflammation, also known as allergic conjunctivitis. This condition is characterized by red and itchy eyes. The eye drop functions as an antihistamine – it prevents histamine from working. The blocking of histamine stops the symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, including itching, redness and burning. The drops can be prescribed for use by both children and adults.
Patanol eye drops are simple to use. Check that they are in date before use. This is important as expired eye drops can prove ineffective. You will find the expiration date on the packaging. The drug can be used by individuals who wear contact lenses. However, if you do wear contact lenses, these should be removed before using Patanol. Contact lenses can be put back in place between ten and fifteen minutes following application of the eye drops. Patanol eye drops should not be used at the same time as any other eye medications, unless you have been told otherwise by your Doctor. The reason for this is other types of drops may decrease the effectiveness of Patanol or the different types of drops may interact with each other. This eye medication should not be applied to eyes which are suffering from an infection.
To use Patanol, squeeze one or two drops of the solution into the affected eye or eyes. Your Doctor will inform you how often to use the drops. However, treatment is usually once or twice daily. For personalized dosage guidelines, ask your Doctor or Pharmacist or check your prescription label. Once the drops have been dispersed, close your eyes. While your eye is closed, place one finger atop of the inside corner of the eye and with this finger apply mild pressure for around two minutes. Try to refrain from blinking immediately following use of the drops. Continue to take the medication until your Doctor confirms that your eye has healed.
Patanol is associated with some side effects. These include headaches, swelling of the eyelids, sensations of a foreign body in the eye, blurred vision and burning of the eyes upon eye drop application. Any side effects should subside relatively quickly. If you experience any of the side effects listed and they fail to subside or they intensify, you should report them to the Doctor who prescribed your medication. If you experience blurred vision following use of these drops, it is advisable to refrain from driving and the operation of machinery. Refrain from use of the drops if you experience severe redness, crusting, draining or swelling of the eyes prior to their use.
Experience of severe allergic reactions is uncommon with the use of Patanol. However, symptoms of a severe reaction to the drug include difficulty breathing, dizziness and skin rash. Medical help should be sought immediately in the rare event that these symptoms are experienced.
You should inform your Doctor if you are planning to become pregnant while using these drops or if you are breast-feeding.
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