What is the strength (concentration) of Pataday (olopatadine) ophthalmic drops?

Pataday (Olopatadine) Available Strengths

Pataday ophthalmic drops are available in multiple concentrations: 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.7% olopatadine hydrochloride. 1, 2, 3

Specific Formulations and Concentrations

Ophthalmic (Eye) Drops

• Olopatadine 0.1% (Patanol): The original formulation, dosed twice daily for allergic conjunctivitis 4, 5

• Olopatadine 0.2% (Pataday Once Daily Relief): Formulated for once-daily dosing, delivering 665 µg per spray in aqueous solution 1, 2, 6

  • FDA-approved for seasonal allergic conjunctivitis in adults and children ≥6 years 1
  • Provides rapid onset of action with prolonged 16-hour duration 6

• Olopatadine 0.7% (Pataday Once Daily Relief Extra Strength): Higher concentration available over-the-counter for enhanced efficacy 7

  • Demonstrates superior initial comfort compared to combination antihistamine/vasoconstrictor drops 7

Intranasal Formulation

• Olopatadine 0.6% nasal spray (Patanase): Delivers 665 µg per spray for allergic rhinitis 1, 2
  • Approved for seasonal allergic rhinitis in patients ≥6 years 1
  • Dosing: Ages 6-11 years: 1 spray per nostril twice daily; Ages ≥12 years: 2 sprays per nostril twice daily 1
  • Onset of action at 30 minutes post-dosing 2

Clinical Considerations by Strength

The 0.2% formulation offers the advantage of once-daily dosing with equivalent efficacy to twice-daily 0.1% dosing, making it preferable for improving patient compliance 5. Both concentrations demonstrate significant superiority over placebo in reducing ocular itching at all time points up to 24 hours 6, 5.

Common side effects are consistent across concentrations: bitter taste (12.8% with intranasal 0.6%), local irritation, and minimal somnolence (0.9% with intranasal formulation versus 11.5% with azelastine) 8, 2.

The ophthalmic formulations are safe for use in patients with concurrent dry eye, showing no significant exacerbation of dry eye signs or symptoms 9.