Understanding Pataday and Its Primary Use
Pataday is an over-the-counter (OTC) ophthalmic solution used to treat eye itching caused by allergic conjunctivitis [1.2.1, 1.2.3]. The active ingredient, olopatadine hydrochloride, is a potent antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer [1.3.1]. This dual-action mechanism provides rapid and lasting relief from allergy symptoms. Olopatadine works by blocking histamine H1 receptors, which prevents the chemical histamine from causing symptoms like itching and redness. It also stabilizes mast cells, inhibiting them from releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators in the first place [1.3.2]. Pataday is specifically designed to target allergens like pollen, ragweed, grass, and animal hair and dander [1.5.3, 1.13.1].
Identifying Symptoms of Allergic Conjunctivitis
You should consider using Pataday eye drops if you experience the hallmark symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. The primary indication for Pataday is ocular itching [1.2.1]. Other common signs that may accompany the itch include:
- Redness in the white of the eye (hyperemia) [1.7.1]
- Watery eyes or excessive tearing [1.3.1]
- A feeling that something is in the eye (foreign body sensation) [1.7.1]
- Swelling of the eyelids (lid edema) [1.7.1]
These symptoms occur when your eyes are exposed to allergens, triggering an immune response. It's important to note that Pataday is intended for allergy symptoms and should not be used to treat irritation caused by contact lenses or eye infections [1.2.2, 1.9.2]. If your eyes are red, you should avoid wearing contact lenses [1.10.2].
Choosing the Right Pataday Formulation
Pataday is available in several strengths, which affects the dosing schedule. Understanding the differences is key to using the product correctly [1.2.2]:
- Pataday Twice Daily Relief (Olopatadine 0.1%): This formulation is used by placing one drop in the affected eye(s) twice a day, with a 6 to 8-hour interval between doses. It is approved for adults and children 2 years of age and older [1.5.3, 1.13.2].
- Pataday Once Daily Relief (Olopatadine 0.2%): This is a once-a-day formulation, requiring just one drop in each affected eye for 24-hour relief [1.11.3]. It is also safe for adults and children 2 years and older [1.5.4, 1.13.1].
- Pataday Once Daily Relief Extra Strength (Olopatadine 0.7%): This is the highest strength available OTC, also used once daily for severe eye allergy itch. It is approved for use in individuals aged 2 and up [1.5.2, 1.5.4].
For all formulations, if you use other eye drops, you should wait at least 5 minutes between products [1.5.3].
How to Properly Administer Pataday Eye Drops
Correct application ensures the medication's effectiveness and prevents contamination. Follow these steps for proper administration [1.6.2, 1.6.4]:
- Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the bottle or your eyes.
- Remove contact lenses before use. You must wait at least 10 minutes after using Pataday before reinserting them [1.10.3].
- Tilt your head back and look up.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
- Position the dropper tip directly over the pocket without letting it touch your eye, eyelid, or any other surface to avoid contamination [1.2.4].
- Squeeze the bottle to release one drop into the pocket.
- Close your eye for 1-2 minutes and press gently on the tear duct (the inside corner of your eye) to prevent the drop from draining into your nose [1.6.4].
- Wipe away any excess liquid with a clean tissue.
- Replace the cap tightly immediately after use.
Comparison of Common Allergy Eye Drops
| Feature | Pataday (Olopatadine) | Zaditor / Alaway (Ketotifen) |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Olopatadine Hydrochloride [1.2.1] | Ketotifen Fumarate [1.8.1] |
| Mechanism | Antihistamine & Mast Cell Stabilizer [1.3.1] | Antihistamine & Mast Cell Stabilizer [1.8.1] |
| Dosing Frequency | Once or twice daily, depending on strength [1.2.2] | Typically twice daily [1.8.2] |
| Onset of Action | Works within minutes [1.11.1] | Fast-acting |
| Age Approval | 2 years and older [1.13.2] | 3 years and older [1.8.2] |
| Key Advantage | Offers a once-daily option for 24-hour relief [1.11.3] | Available as a lower-cost generic [1.8.2] |
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While generally well-tolerated, Pataday can cause side effects. The most common ones include headache, blurred vision, a burning or stinging sensation upon application, dry eye, and an unusual taste [1.7.1, 1.7.2]. Symptoms similar to a cold, such as a sore throat or stuffy nose, have also been reported [1.7.1].
You should stop using Pataday and consult a doctor if you experience eye pain, changes in vision, or if your symptoms worsen or last for more than 72 hours [1.12.2, 1.13.3]. The main contraindication for Pataday is a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to olopatadine or any other ingredient in the solution [1.9.1].
Conclusion
You should use Pataday eye drops when experiencing ocular itching and redness due to common environmental allergens. Its dual-action formula provides fast, targeted relief for symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis. Available in different strengths, including a convenient once-daily option, Pataday is an effective over-the-counter solution for adults and children two years and older. Always follow the product's directions, practice proper hygiene when applying the drops, and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. For more detailed information, refer to the FDA's official prescribing information.
