provider image
Welcome! You’re in GoodRx for healthcare professionals. Now, you’ll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare professionals.
Skip to main content
Olopatadine Coupon - Olopatadine 5ml of 0.1% eye dropper

olopatadine

Generic Pataday
Used for Allergic Rhinitis, Allergic Conjunctivitis
Used for Allergic Rhinitis, Allergic Conjunctivitis

Olopatadine (Pataday) is an antihistamine over-the-counter (OTC) eye drop medication used to treat eye itching and redness from allergies. It's applied to the eyes, typically once or twice daily, depending on the strength. Some side effects of olopatadine (Pataday) include blurry vision and dry eye.

Last reviewed on September 11, 2023
basics-icon

What is Olopatadine (Pataday)?

What is Olopatadine (Pataday) used for?

How Olopatadine (Pataday) works

Olopatadine (Pataday) is an antihistamine and a mast cell stablizer. It treats allergy by blocking histamine, a chemical your body releases when there are allergens around. Histamine can cause symptoms of allergy, like itchy and red eyes.

Are you looking for information on olopatadine nasal spray (Patanase) instead?
When does Olopatadine (Pataday) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsPataday Once Daily Relief, Pataday Once Daily Relief Extra Strength, Pataday Twice Daily Relief
Drug ClassAntihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter

More on Olopatadine (Pataday) essentials

coupon-save-icon

Get your GoodRx coupon

Avg retail price
$26.05(save 66.49%)
GoodRx discount
$8.73
See prices
basics-icon

What are the side effects of Olopatadine (Pataday)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Blurry vision (5%)
Note: These side effects were noted by people using olopatadine eye drops 0.77% in clinical studies.

Other Side Effects

  • Dry eye
  • Feeling like there's something in your eye
  • Changes in taste
When do Olopatadine (Pataday) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Blurry vision

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Blurred vision

burning, dryness, stinging of the eye

eye redness, irritation, or pain

swelling of the eyelid, face, lips, or feet

trouble breathing

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Headache

runny or stuffy nose

sore throat

Less common

Back pain

body or muscle aches or pain

change in taste

chills

cough

diarrhea

feeling of something in the eye

general feeling of discomfort or illness

increased cough

lack or loss of strength

loss of appetite

nausea

pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones

redness of the eye or inside of the eyelid

sensitivity of the eyes to light

shivering

sneezing

sweating

tender, swollen glands in the neck

trouble sleeping

trouble swallowing

unusual tiredness or weakness

voice changes

vomiting

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Olopatadine (Pataday)

thumbs-up

Pros

Works within minutes and lasts up to 24 hours, depending on the strength

Can be used in children over 2 years old

Available over the counter

thumbs-down

Cons

Can't wear contacts for 10 minutes after using

Not for itching caused by infections or contact lenses

Might contain preservatives

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Olopatadine (Pataday)

pharmacist
  • Before using olopatadine (Pataday) eye drop, make sure to wash your hands. Also, take out your contact lenses if you're wearing any.

    • Don't touch the olopatadine (Pataday) dropper tip with your eye, hands, or any other surface. This will help you avoid eye infections by preventing contamination of the solution.

      • Once you're ready to place the drops, tilt your head back and look up. Then, pull your lower eyelid down to form a pocket with one hand. Take the olopatadine (Pataday) bottle and give yourself a drop using the other hand. After, close your eye and press one finger to the inner corner of your eye by the nose and press lightly for 1 minute.

        • If you're using olopatadine (Pataday) at the same time as other eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between each drop to give your eyes time to absorb each medication.

          • If you wear contact lenses, you can put them back in about 10 minutes after using olopatadine (Pataday). If you're using multiple eye drops, ask your provider how long you need to wait before putting contact lenses back in.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Olopatadine (Pataday)

            Is olopatadine (Pataday) over the counter?
            Yes. Olopatadine eye drop, including brand name Pataday, is available over the counter. This medication comes in three different strengths: olopatadine (Pataday) 0.1% is used twice daily, whereas olopatadine (Pataday) 0.2% and 0.7% only need to be applied once daily.
            How long can you use olopatadine (Pataday) eye drops?
            Olopatadine (Pataday) can be used for year-round allergies. But if your eye symptoms last for more than or worsens after 3 days of using olopatadine (Pataday), contact your provider. They might want to take a look at your eyes to see if there's a more serious condition that needs more medical attention. Or they might be able to recommend additional allergy medications to help with your symptoms.
            Can I use olopatadine (Pataday) twice a day?
            You can use olopatadine (Pataday) 0.1% twice a day. But olopatadine (Pataday) 0.2% strength and olopatadine (Pataday) 0.7% strength should only be used once daily. Make sure to read the label of your medication for specific directions for your product.
            Can you use olopatadine (Pataday) with contacts?
            No, you should remove your contact lenses before using olopatadine (Pataday). You'll also need to wait at least 10 minutes before putting your contact lenses back in your eye(s) after placing the drops. Keep in mind that olopatadine (Pataday) isn't meant to treat eye redness that's caused by contact lens irritation. If you suspect your symptoms might be a result of contact lenses, stop wearing your contacts and talk with your optometrist. Don't wear contact lenses if your eyes are red.
            Who should not use olopatadine (Pataday)?
            Olopatadine (Pataday) is only meant for people ages 2 years and older who are experiencing eye-related allergy symptoms, such as redness and itching. Don't use olopatadine (Pataday) in children younger than 2 years old without asking their provider first. In addition, don't use olopatadine (Pataday) if you're allergic to any of the ingredients, including the inactive ingredients. Finally, if you begin to experience eye pain, changes in vision, worsening allergy symptoms that last for more than 3 days after starting olopatadine (Pataday), stop the medication and contact your provider. These could be signs of a more serious problem that needs more medical attention.
            Is olopatadine (Pataday) good for dry eyes?
            No. Olopatadine (Pataday) is only meant to treat eye allergy symptoms. In fact, dry eye is a possible side effect of olopatadine (Pataday). If you have dry eyes, ask your provider about possible treatment options for dry eyes, such as artificial tears.
            Can you use olopatadine (Pataday) with other eye drops?
            Yes, it's okay to use more than eye drop. But if you need to apply more than one eye drop in the same eye at the same time, make sure to separate olopatadine (Pataday) from other eye drop medications by at least 5 minutes. This will help ensure each medication gets absorbed into your eye.
            Can I use olopatadine (Pataday) while pregnant?
            Ask your provider before using olopatadine (Pataday) while pregnant. This medication hasn't been well-studied in pregnancy. But based on how olopatadine (Pataday) works, very little of this medication is expected to get absorbed into the body. Because of this, it's unlikely that this medication will affect an unborn baby. You're recommended to talk with your provider about allergy medications that you can take during pregnancy.
            GoodRxEducationalIcon

            How to save using GoodRx

            Compare Prices
            1. Compare PricesSpecify your dosage and quantity to find out exactly how much you can save.
            Select your free coupon
            2. Select your free couponYou can use the displayed coupon, or compare prices at other pharmacies near you.
            Show coupon to your pharmacist
            3. Show coupon to your pharmacistPresent your printed or electronic coupon when you pick up your prescription.
            Get free couponLearn more
            warings-icon

            What are the risks and warnings for Olopatadine (Pataday)?

            Olopatadine (Pataday) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            For use in the eyes only

            Olopatadine (Pataday) should only be used in your eyes. Don't give yourself this medication any other way. If you or someone else takes olopatadine (Pataday) by mouth, get medical help right away or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

            risk-warning

            Risk for bacterial infections in the eye when using contaminated medication

            Eye infections can happen if your olopatadine (Pataday) bottle gets contaminated with bacteria and then you use the drops in your eyes. Some people who used contaminated olopatadine (Pataday) developed bacterial keratitis, a bacterial infection of the cornea (the protective covering on the front of the eye). It's important to wash your hands before each use and be careful not to touch the dropper tip to your eye, with your hands, or to any other surface.

            risk-warning

            Don't use while wearing contact lenses

            If you wear contact lenses, take them out each time before you place olopatadine (Pataday) drops into your eye(s). Wait at least 10 minutes after your dose before putting your contacts back in.

            dosage

            Olopatadine (Pataday) dosage forms

            The average cost for 1 eye dropper of 5ml of 0.1% of Olopatadine (Pataday) is $14.60 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 43.97% off the average retail price of $26.05.
            eye dropper
            Eye dropper
            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
            5ml of 0.1%1 eye dropper$14.60$14.60
            2.5ml of 0.2%1 eye dropper$8.73$8.73
            nasal spray
            Nasal spray
            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
            30.5g of 665mcg1 nasal spray$29.86$29.86

            Typical dosing for Olopatadine (Pataday)

            Olopatadine (Pataday) products come in different strengths with different directions. Please refer to the manufacturer's label for specific instructions for your product.

            Examples include:

            • Olopatadine (Pataday) 0.1%:

              • Age 2 years and older: The typical dose is 1 drop in the affected eye(s) every 6 to 8 hours, up to twice per day.

              • Children younger than 2 years old: Ask your child's provider.

            • Olopatadine (Pataday) 0.7% and olopatadine (Pataday) 0.2%:

              • Age 2 years and older: The typical dose is 1 drop in the affected eye(s) once per day.

              • Children younger than 2 years old: Ask your child's provider.

            interactions

            Interactions between Olopatadine (Pataday) and other drugs

            Olopatadine (Pataday) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Olopatadine (Pataday). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

            drug-cost

            How much does Olopatadine (Pataday) cost?

            To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.View prices & coupons
            alternatives

            What are alternatives to Olopatadine (Pataday)?

            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Olopatadine (Pataday). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
            Olopatadine (Pataday)
            Used for:
            $8.73 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
            Used for:
            • Allergy-related itchy eyes

            $8.40 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
            images

            Olopatadine (Pataday) images

            This medicine is Colorless Eye Dropper.
            This medicine is Colorless Eye Dropper.
            This medicine is Colorless Eye Dropper.
            This medicine is Colorless Eye Dropper.

            Get savings updates for Olopatadine (Pataday)

            Receive price alerts, news, and other messages from GoodRx about Olopatadine (Pataday) and other healthcare topics and relevant savings offers.

            By signing up, I agree to GoodRx's Terms and Privacy Policy, and to receive marketing messages from GoodRx.

            References

            Best studies we found
            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
            Was this page helpful?

            Browse medications

            View All

            Research prescriptions and over-the-counter medications from A to Z, compare drug prices, and start saving.