ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
They work within minutes and last up to a day.
What it's used for
- Itchy eyes from allergies
- Nasal allergies (nasal spray)
How to take it
- Wash your hands. Tilt your head back, pull down the lower lid, and put in one drop without touching the tip to your eye.
- Wait at least 5 minutes between different eye drops. Remove contact lenses unless the label says otherwise.
- Use once or twice a day as the label says.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Mild burning or stinging
- Headache
- Bitter taste
Call your provider todayEye pain, vision changes, or redness that gets worse
Warnings
- Red, painful eyes with discharge or light sensitivity may be an infection, not allergies.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Few interactions.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Ask your provider.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Apply it when you remember, then go back to your usual schedule. Don't apply extra to make up for it.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Olopatadine eye drops (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.