How do you take Olopatadine (Olopatadine Hydrochloride)?

For the 0.1% solution, put 1 drop in each affected eye twice a day, about 6 to 8 hours apart. For the 0.2% solution, put 1 drop in each affected eye once a day. Wash your hands before and after using the drops. Do not let the tip of the bottle touch your eye or any surface.

What are the side effects of Olopatadine (Olopatadine Hydrochloride)?

Mild burning or stinging feeling in the eye after putting in the drop, headache, slight blurred vision for a short time, dry eyes, unusual taste in the mouth

Who should not take Olopatadine (Olopatadine Hydrochloride)?

People who are allergic to olopatadine or any ingredient in the eye drop should not use it. Children under 3 years should not use it unless prescribed by a doctor. People with severe eye infections should see a doctor first rather than self-treating with this drop.

OTC

Antihistamine (anti-allergy eye drop)

Olopatadine

Q: What is Olopatadine (Olopatadine Hydrochloride) used for?

Allergic eye conditions (itchy, red, watery eyes), seasonal eye allergies from dust or pollen, eye irritation from harmattan dust

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Olopatadine is an antihistamine eye drop that works by blocking the release of histamine in your eyes, which is the chemical your body produces during an allergic reaction that causes itching, redness, and watering.

How it works

Binds to H1 histamine receptors on ocular mast cells and other immune cells, preventing histamine release and blocking histamine-mediated allergic responses that cause itching, redness, and conjunctival edema.

What is it used for?

Allergic eye conditions (itchyredwatery eyes)seasonal eye allergies from dust or polleneye irritation from harmattan dust

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Allergies Eye Care & Dry Eyes Eye Conditions Eye Infections

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Buy only from reputable pharmacies and avoid roadside sellers or open market vendors, as eye drops stored in heat or sunlight may be damaged and unsafe. Do not share your eye drops with anyone else, as this can spread eye infections. If your symptoms do not improve after a few days of use, see a doctor instead of continuing on your own.

Common Side Effects

Mild burning or stinging feeling in the eye after putting in the drop
headache
slight blurred vision for a short time
dry eyes
unusual taste in the mouth

Serious Side Effects

Severe eye pain
swelling
or worsening redness after using the drop should prompt you to stop using it and see a doctor immediately. Signs of a serious allergic reaction like swelling of the face
difficulty breathing
or severe rash require you to go to the hospital right away.

Drug Interactions

If you are using other eye drops or eye medications, wait at least 5 to 10 minutes between each one so they don't dilute each other. Remove contact lenses before applying and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back. Alcohol does not directly interact with olopatadine eye drops, but it can worsen eye dryness.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using olopatadine eye drops, as there is not enough evidence to confirm it is completely safe.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to olopatadine or any ingredient in the eye drop should not use it. Children under 3 years should not use it unless prescribed by a doctor. People with severe eye infections should see a doctor first rather than self-treating with this drop.

How to Store

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigeria can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use, away from moisture and humidity, and out of the reach of children. Discard the bottle 4 weeks after opening.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.