Opatanol (Olopatadine) Eye Drops - 5ml

What are Opatanol eye drops?

Opatanol eye drops are a prescription treatment used to relieve the symptoms of hay fever and allergic conjunctivitis, like itching, redness, and watering. They contain an antihistamine, olopatadine, that helps calm the allergic response directly in your eyes.

How do Opatanol eye drops work?

Opatanol works by blocking histamine receptors in your eyes. Histamine is released when your body reacts to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander.

By stopping histamine from binding to these receptors, Opatanol helps:

• reduce itching
• calm redness and inflammation
• decrease watering

Because the drops are applied directly to your eyes, they provide targeted relief at the site of symptoms rather than affecting your whole body.

How effective is Opatanol?

Opatanol is considered an effective treatment for allergic eye conditions when used as directed.

Antihistamine eye drops, like olopatadine, are recommended for relieving symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, especially when symptoms are moderate or persistent.

You may notice relief within minutes a few hours , although regular use may be needed to keep symptoms under control during allergy season.

For the best results, use the drops consistently and avoid known allergy triggers where possible.

How to use Opatanol eye drops

Opatanol is usually applied once or twice daily, depending on your prescription. You should:

• Wash your hands thoroughly
• Tilt your head back and gently pull down your lower eyelid
• Hold the dropper above your eye
• Apply one drop into the lower eyelid
• Close your eyes for a few seconds
• Repeat in the other eye if needed

Tips for use

• Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye.
• Remove contact lenses before use (unless advised otherwise).
• Wait at least 5–10 minutes before using other eye drops.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. For more, read the patient information leaflet.

Potential Opatanol side effects

Most people tolerate Opatanol well, but side effects can occur when using antihistamines.

Common Opatanol side effects include:

• mild eye irritation
• dry eyes
• blurred vision (temporary)
• headache

These are usually mild and short-lived.

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• severe eye pain
• persistent redness or swelling
• changes in vision
• signs of an allergic reaction

If symptoms worsen or do not improve, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Who shouldn’t use Opatanol eye drops?

Opatanol may not be suitable for you if you:

• are allergic to olopatadine or any ingredients in the drops
• have certain eye conditions that require different treatment
• are pregnant or breastfeeding (unless advised by a healthcare professional)

Always inform your healthcare provider about your medical history before using Opatanol.

Storage information

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed.
• Do not touch the dropper tip.
• Discard the bottle four weeks after opening.

Keep out of reach of children and do not use after the expiry date.

Alternatives to Opatanol

A generic version of Opatanol containing the same active ingredient, olopatadine, is also available. This works in the same way but may be cheaper.

If Opatanol is not suitable for you, other treatments may help relieve allergy-related eye symptoms:

• sodium cromoglicate-based eye drops, like Optrex and Opticrom
• ketotifen, another prescription antihistamine option
• oral antihistamines for whole-body allergy symptoms, like cetirizine and loratadine

There are also some non-medical tips for dealing with hay fever, including using cold compresses to reduce swelling and avoid allergens where possible.

Your pharmacist or doctor can help you choose the most suitable option for your symptoms.

Frequently asked questions about Opatanol

Is Opatanol a steroid?

No. Opatanol is not a steroid. It's an antihistamine eye drop that works by blocking histamine to reduce allergy symptoms.

How often should I use Opatanol?

You will usually use Opatanol once or twice daily, depending on your prescription. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Is Opatanol good for dry eyes?

Opatanol is designed to treat allergic eye symptoms, not dry eyes. If your symptoms are caused by dryness rather than allergies, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops may be more suitable.

Sources

• Opatanol Eye Drops PIL. EMC. [Accessed 9 April 2026].
• Allergic conjunctivitis. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 9 April 2026].
• Hay fever. (2023). NHS. [Accessed 9 April 2026].
• Allergic conditions management. (2022). NICE. [Accessed 9 April 2026].