Who Makes This Medication?
Patanol is manufactured by Alcon Laboratories, Inc.
Patanol belongs to a group of allergy medications known as antihistamines.
Specifically, it is an H1 receptor antagonist. This means that it blocks a specific type of histamine receptor in the body (known as H1 receptors). Because allergic reactions are partly caused by the release of histamine from certain cells in the body, this medication can help relieve or prevent
allergy symptoms.
In addition to blocking histamine receptors, Patanol seems to decrease the release of histamine from the cells in the body. This may also help prevent or relieve the symptoms of eye allergies.
Some general considerations for those taking Patanol include the following:
- This medication comes in the form of an eyedrop. It is usually used in each eye twice a day, with six or eight hours between the two doses.
- In order to prevent contamination of the drops, do not touch the tip of the dropper to any surface, including the surface of the eye.
- If you wear contact lenses, you must remove them to use the drops. In order to prevent the lens from absorbing some of the ingredients in the medication, make sure to wait at least 10 minutes after using the drops before reinserting the lens. Do not wear your contact lenses if your eye is still red.
- For Patanol to work properly, it must be taken as directed.
There is only one standard recommended dosage for this product. As is always the case, do not adjust your Patanol dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Patanol can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Some people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Possible side effects of Patanol include but are not limited to:
- Headaches
- Burning or stinging
- Blurred vision
- Swelling of the eyelid.
(Click Patanol Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Patanol?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not clear what exactly to expect from an overdose with this medication. If you happen to take too much Patanol, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Patanol Be Stored?
Patanol should be stored upright between 36°F and 77°F. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Patanol as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Patanol comes in one strength -- Patanol 0.1%, available in a 5-mL bottle.
Is There a Generic Patanol?
