Olopatadine 0.1% Eye Drops (Opatanol)

How it works

It is a selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist that also inhibits the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells, relieving the itching and redness of ocular allergy.

Prescribing in practice

• It provides both rapid symptom relief and a preventive effect, but is not a treatment for ocular infection and the underlying allergic trigger should be addressed where possible.
• Contact lenses should be removed before instillation if the eyes are red, and the preservative may be absorbed by soft lenses.
• Transient blurred vision after instillation may temporarily affect tasks such as driving.

Monitoring

Treatment is monitored clinically by reviewing symptom control during the period of allergen exposure.

Counselling the patient

• The drops both relieve and help prevent allergy symptoms, so use them as your clinician directs.
• Wait until any temporary blurring clears before driving or operating machinery.
• Remove contact lenses before use and follow advice on when to reinsert them.

Evidence & guidelines

Dual-acting antihistamine and mast cell stabiliser drops are an established treatment for allergic conjunctivitis, supported by clinical trials and the SPC.