Drug Guide
Olopatadine Hydrochloride
Classification
Therapeutic: Antiallergic, Mast Cell Stabilizer
Pharmacological: Selective H1 Antihistamine
FDA Approved Indications
- Allergic conjunctivitis (Pataday and Patanase)
Mechanism of Action
Olopatadine blocks histamine H1 receptors and stabilizes mast cells, preventing the release of inflammatory mediators associated with allergic reactions.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Pataday: One drop in affected eye(s) twice daily. Patanase: One spray in each nostril once daily.
Pediatric: Safety and efficacy established in children 3 years and older for Pataday; 6 years and older for Patanase.
Geriatric: No specific dosage adjustment required; use with caution in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
Renal Impairment: No specific adjustments needed.
Hepatic Impairment: No specific adjustments needed.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Rapid absorption via conjunctival and nasal mucosa.
Distribution: Widely distributed; ocular tissues, nasal mucosa.
Metabolism: Minimal hepatic metabolism; primarily excreted unchanged.
Excretion: Renal excretion of unchanged drug.
Half Life: Approximately 5 hours.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to olopatadine or any component of the formulation.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with ophthalmic infections, or nasal infections.
- Not studied in pregnant or lactating women; use only if benefits outweigh risks.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Ocular irritation, burning, or pruritus (Common)
- Untoward taste in the mouth (Patanase) (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Anaphylaxis (Rare)
- Vision changes or eye pain (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- None commonly reported, but caution with other ophthalmic or nasal medications.
Drug-Food Interactions
- No significant interactions.
Drug-Herb Interactions
- Lack of data; use caution.
Nursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for relief of allergy symptoms and ocular or nasal side effects.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for infection (due to ocular or nasal irritation).
- Impaired comfort related to allergic symptoms.
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, instruct patient on proper instillation technique.
Evaluation: Assess symptom relief and adverse effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Use medication as directed.
- Report any adverse reactions, especially ocular pain, vision changes, or signs of allergy worsening.
- Use proper hand hygiene before instilling drops.
- Do not touch the tip of the dropper to eye or nasal tissues.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None currently.
Genetic Factors: Data limited.
Lab Test Interference: No significant interference known.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Unlikely with topical use; ingestion may cause anticholinergic-like symptoms including dry mouth and confusion.
Treatment: Supportive care; seek medical attention for ingestion.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
Stability: Stable until expiration date when stored properly.