olopatadine
Olopatadine (Patanase) is a prescription nasal spray used to treat seasonal allergies in people 6 years and older. It works quickly and can relieve allergy symptoms for up to 12 hours. And most people experience few to no side effects while using olopatadine (Patanase).
What is Olopatadine (Patanase)?
What is Olopatadine (Patanase) used for?
Allergies
How Olopatadine (Patanase) works
Olopatadine (Patanase) is an antihistamine. It blocks a natural chemical called histamine, which is responsible for symptoms of seasonal allergies, such as itchy nose, watery eyes, and congestion.
Drug Facts
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What are the side effects of Olopatadine (Patanase)?
Common Side Effects
- Nosebleeds (Up to 25%)
- Sores in the nose (Up to 10%)
Other Side Effects
- Weight gain
- Drowsiness
- Feeling tired
- Depression
- Dizziness
- Bitter taste
- Headache
- Nasal pain or discomfort
- Loss of smell
- Diarrhea
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:
Less common
Back pain
body or muscle aches or pain
change in taste
chills
feeling of something in the eye
general feeling of discomfort or illness
increased cough
lack or loss of strength
loss of appetite
pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
redness of the eye or inside of the eyelid
sensitivity of the eyes to light
shivering
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 of Olopatadine (Patanase)
Pros
Typically works quickly within 30 minutes
Has very few side effects, so it's safe for most people
Can be used in children as young as 6 years old
Available as a lower-cost generic medication
Cons
Can cause nosebleed or sores in the nose
Only helps with nasal symptoms of seasonal allergies, not for infections or other health conditions
Can leave a bitter taste in the mouth
Not available over the counter
Pharmacist tips for Olopatadine (Patanase)
Don't drive a car or operate machinery after using olopatadine (Patanase) as this medication can make you sleepy and lower your alertness.
Make sure to read the instructions for use before using olopatadine (Patanase). Doing so can help you use this medication safely.
Olopatadine (Patanase) should only be sprayed into the nose for it to work properly. Don't take this medication by mouth, and never spray it in your eyes or ears to avoid side effects.
Before using olopatadine (Patanase), gently blow your nose to clear it of mucus.
Shake the bottle well each time before using olopatadine (Patanase).
The first time you use olopatadine (Patanase), prime the nasal spray by releasing 5 sprays into the air or until you see a fine mist. This helps to make sure you get the full dose of medication in each spray afterwards. If you haven't used olopatadine (Patanase) for more than 7 days, re-prime the nasal spray by releasing 2 sprays into the air.
If olopatadine (Patanase)becomes clogged, gently pull the applicator off the bottle and rinse the applicator under warm water for a minute. Replace the applicator back on the bottle after it's dried. Then re-prime the device by releasing 2 sprays into the air each time you need to take it apart to clean it.
Throw away your olopatadine (Patanase) bottle after using 240 sprays after you first prime it, even if it still has medication in it. This will make sure you get the correct dose.
Frequently asked questions about Olopatadine (Patanase)
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What are the risks and warnings for Olopatadine (Patanase)?
Olopatadine (Patanase) 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.
Nasal problems
Since olopatadine (Patanase) is used directly in the nose, it can raise the risk of side effects such as nosebleeds or ulcers (sores) in the nose. Let your provider know if you have a history of nasal ulcers, long-term nosebleeds, or nasal injury. Your provider will examine your nose to make sure this medication is safe for you before starting. If you experience frequent or heavy nosebleeds, sores in your nose, nose pain, or a whistling sound when you breathe while using olopatadine (Patanase), speak to your provider right away because you might need to stop using the medication.
Excessive sleepiness
Risk factors: Drinking alcohol | Taking medications that cause drowsiness
Olopatadine (Patanase) can sometimes cause you to feel drowsy. Using this medication with alcohol or medications that also cause drowsiness (e.g., benzodiazepines, sleep medications, muscle relaxers, or opioids) can slow down brain activity and lead to severe sleepiness. Talk to a provider right away if you have symptoms of severe drowsiness, dizziness, muscle weakness, or confusion. Make sure you know how olopatadine (Patanase) affects you before driving a car or doing activities that require concentration.
Olopatadine (Patanase) dosage forms
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30.5g of 665mcg | 1 nasal spray | $308.01 | $308.01 |
Typical dosing for Olopatadine (Patanase)
Each spray contains 665 mcg (micrograms) of olopatadine.
Adults and children 12 years or older: The typical dose is 2 sprays into each nostril 2 times daily.
Children ages 6-11 years old: The typical dose is 1 spray into each nostril 2 times daily.
Interactions between Olopatadine (Patanase) and other drugs
How much does Olopatadine (Patanase) cost?
What are alternatives to Olopatadine (Patanase)?
Eye and nasal symptoms of seasonal allergies (e.g., runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, itchy eyes)
Seasonal allergy symptoms related to the nose
Year-round allergy symptoms related to the nose - azelastine 0.15% spray only
Runny or stuffy nose that isn't caused by allergies - azelastine 0.1% spray only
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