Eye Drops: Patanol

Patanol is the brand name of a prescription medication available in the US. It takes the form of eye drops, and is used to treat a condition called allergic conjunctivitis. The active ingredient in the drug is called olopatadine and it temporarily relives itching of the eyes caused by this condition. It works by acting on certain cells in the eye called mast cells. It prevents these mast cells from releasing chemicals that are causing the irritation of the eye.

Because Patanol is available in the form of eye drops, it is important that it is administered properly. Eye drops are more difficult to administer then many other medications and many people don’t have a lot of experience with them. The medication will not be effective if it is not taken correctly, so it is important that you follow these steps:

1) Wash your hands. Your eyes are suffering from an allergic reaction, and it is therefore necessary to keep as many foreign organisms as possible away from them.

2) Tilt your head back, and press on the area just below your lower eyelid. This will create a small space between your eyeball and eyelid.

3) Drop the medication into this space and immediately close your eye for a minute or two. This allows the medication to be absorbed by the eyes. It is important that you don’t blink.

4) Keep the applicator tip as sterile as possible. Do not let the tip touch your hands or eyeball, as this could contaminate it, and when finished, immediately replace the cap so that the applicator tip stays sterile.

As with any medication, it is possible that Patanol may cause some unwanted side effects. Some possible side effects include a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, or a headache. While these side effects do not necessarily require immediate medical attention, in some cases they may become prolonged and uncomfortable, in which case you should consult your doctor.

In rarer cases Patanol may cause burning or itching eyes or a discharge from the eyes. These side effects should be watched for more closely, and they occur you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. It is also important that your notify your doctor if you will be taking any other over the counter or prescription medication while taking Patanol, as some drugs can have dangerous interactions. And as with all medication, your doctor should be notified of any allergies or pre-existing medial conditions.