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Patanol
Patanol is used for relieving symptoms of eye allergies. By blocking a specific type of histamine receptor in the body, the medication can help relieve or prevent allergy symptoms. It comes in the form of an eyedrop that is placed in each eye twice a day. Most people have no problems, but side effects can include headaches, blurred vision, and burning or stinging in the eye.
Patanol® (olopatadine ophthalmic solution) is a prescription eyedrop used for the treatment of signs and symptoms of eye allergies (known medically as allergic conjunctivitis). Allergic conjunctivitis is a common cause of pink eye.
(Click Patanol Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
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.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD