From the FDA Drug Label
Directions adults and children 2 years of age and older: put 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, every 6 to 8 hours, no more than twice per day if using other ophthalmic products while using this product, wait at least 5 minutes between each product replace cap after each use children under 2 years of age:consult a doctor The recommended dosing for Pataday is:
- 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, every 6 to 8 hours
- No more than twice per day if using other ophthalmic products
- Wait at least 5 minutes between each product
- For children under 2 years of age, consult a doctor 1
From the Research
Pataday (olopatadine) should be dosed once daily for the 0.2% solution, applying one drop in each affected eye, as this formulation has been shown to provide effective relief from allergic conjunctivitis symptoms 2.
Key Considerations for Pataday Dosing
- For Pataday Once Daily Relief (0.2% solution), apply one drop in each affected eye once daily.
- For Pataday Twice Daily Relief (0.1% solution), use one drop in each affected eye twice daily, with doses spaced approximately 8-12 hours apart.
- Before application, wash your hands thoroughly, tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid to form a pocket, and place the drop in this pocket without touching the dropper to your eye or any surface.
- After instillation, close your eyes gently for 1-2 minutes to allow the medication to spread across the eye surface.
- If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying Pataday and wait at least 10 minutes before reinserting them.
Mechanism of Action and Efficacy
- Pataday works by blocking histamine receptors in the eye, reducing allergic symptoms like itching, redness, and tearing.
- It begins working within minutes and provides relief throughout the dosing period.
- Studies have shown that olopatadine is effective in alleviating symptoms of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis, and is a viable alternative to other treatments such as intranasal steroids and oral antihistamines 3, 4.
- A comparison with alcaftadine 0.25% found that while both were effective, alcaftadine demonstrated greater efficacy in preventing ocular itching at certain time points 2.
Important Safety Information
- If symptoms persist or worsen after several days of use, consult your healthcare provider.
- Pataday is generally well-tolerated, but as with any medication, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions to minimize potential side effects.