olopatadine (nasal)

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Pronunciation: OH loe PA ta deen

Brand: Patanase

What is the most important information I should know about olopatadine nasal?

Before using olopatadine nasal, tell your doctor if you have any non-allergic conditions affecting the inside of your nose, such as a deviated septum.

This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of olopatadine nasal.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using olopatadine nasal.

What is olopatadine nasal?

Olopatadine nasal is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Olopatadine nasal (for the nose) is used to treat symptoms such as congestion, sneezing, and runny nose caused by seasonal allergies. Olopatadine nasal is for use in adults and children who are at least 6 years old.

Olopatadine nasal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using olopatadine nasal?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to olopatadine.

Before using olopatadine nasal, tell your doctor if you have any non-allergic conditions affecting the inside of your nose, such as a deviated septum.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether olopatadine nasal will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.

It is not known whether olopatadine nasal passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 6 years old without medical advice.

How should I use olopatadine nasal?

Use exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Before using the spray for the first time, you must prime the spray pump. Shake the medicine well and spray 5 test sprays into the air and away from your face. Spray until a fine mist appears.

To use the olopatadine nasal spray:

  • Gently blow your nose before using the nasal spray.
  • Insert the spray tip into your nostril, pointing it straight up into your nose. Press your other nostril closed with your finger and keep your head upright. Pump the spray and gently inhale at the same time.
  • Use only the number of sprays prescribed by your doctor.
  • Clean the pump nozzle with a clean, damp tissue and recap it.
  • Prime the spray pump with at least 2 sprays any time it has been longer than 7 days since you last used it.

Try not to sneeze or blow your nose just after using the spray.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse while using olopatadine nasal.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include severe forms of some of the side effects listed in this medication guide.

What should I avoid while taking olopatadine nasal?

This medication may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of olopatadine nasal.

Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this does happen, rinse with water.

What are the possible side effects of olopatadine nasal?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using olopatadine nasal and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

  • nosebleed;
  • sores inside your nose;
  • fever; or
  • burning or pain when you urinate.

Less serious side effects may include:

  • drowsiness;
  • a bitter taste in your mouth;
  • headache;
  • dry mouth, sore throat;
  • cough, sneezing, runny nose, cold symptoms;
  • weight gain; or
  • nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect olopatadine nasal?

Before using olopatadine nasal, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by olopatadine nasal.

There may be other drugs that can interact with olopatadine nasal. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about olopatadine nasal.


Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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