IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
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OLOPATADINE - OPHTHALMIC SOLUTION
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(oh-low-PAT-uh-deen off-THAL-mick)
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COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Patanol
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USES: This medication is an antihistamine used to treat itching and redness in the eyes due to allergies. This medication is not recommended for the treatment of eye irritation due to wearing contact lenses.
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HOW TO USE: Apply this medication in the affected eye(s) usually twice a day (6 to 8 hours between doses), or as directed by your doctor. Wash your hands before each use. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. The preservative in this product may be absorbed by contact lenses. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using this medication and keep them out of your eyes for at least 10 minutes after each dose. Tilt your head back, look upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and apply the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the inside corner of your eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same times each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Wait at least 5 minutes in between applying this medicine and any other eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments) you may be using. Use eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
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SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, blurred vision, burning/stinging/redness/dryness of the eye, eyelid swelling, a feeling as if something is in your eye, or changes in taste may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: unusual weakness. A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
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PRECAUTIONS: Before taking olopatadine hydrochloride, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to the preservative (benzalkonium chloride); or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: contact lens use. Use caution engaging in activities requiring clear vision such as driving or using machinery because your vision may be temporarily blurred or unstable after applying this drug. Alcohol may worsen this effect. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other medications for the eye. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
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OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
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NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.
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MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
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STORAGE: Store the US product between 39-77 degrees F (4-25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Store the Canadian product between 39-86 degrees F (4-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
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