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Overview

Red, itchy, and watery eyes can make hayfever or allergies feel unbearable. Olopatadine eye drops provide fast, targeted relief straight to the source of irritation — helping to calm itching, soothe redness, and restore comfort. As a trusted prescription-strength antihistamine eye drop, Olopatadine is designed to bring clarity back to your day when allergies affect your eyes the most.

This medicine requires a secure online consultation with a UK-registered prescriber, and will only be supplied if clinically appropriate.


What is Olopatadine 


Olopatadine eye drops are an antihistamine treatment that work by blocking histamine — the chemical responsible for allergy symptoms — while also reducing inflammation in the eyes. This dual action helps calm irritation and restore comfort during allergy flare-ups.

They are most commonly used for seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (hay fever-related eye allergies) and for relieving red, itchy, and watery eyes triggered by pollen, dust, or pet dander.

By delivering relief directly to the eyes, olopatadine eye drops act quickly — often within minutes — to reduce itching, redness, and watering. They are suitable for regular use throughout allergy season, providing ongoing protection against uncomfortable eye symptoms.

Directions

  • Adults and children aged 12 and over: One drop in each affected eye twice daily (every 8–12 hours)
  • Do not exceed two doses per day
  • Wash hands before use and avoid touching the dropper tip to the eye or any surface
  • Remove contact lenses before using, and wait at least 15 minutes before reinserting them


Always follow prescriber or pharmacist instructions carefully.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, olopatadine eye drops can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Most are mild, temporary, and improve as your eyes adjust to treatment.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Mild eye irritation (burning or stinging after application) – this usually settles within a few minutes of using the drops.
  • Dry eyes – a temporary feeling of dryness or grittiness may occur.
  • Headache – typically mild and short-lived.


Less common (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Blurred vision – temporary blurring may occur just after using the drops; avoid driving or operating machinery until your vision clears.
  • Unusual taste in the mouth after application – this may happen if some of the solution drains into the throat, but it usually passes quickly.
  • Tiredness – a small number of people may feel slightly fatigued after use.


Rare but serious (seek urgent medical advice):

  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a sudden rash. This is extremely rare but requires immediate medical help.


Most people tolerate olopatadine eye drops well, and side effects (if they do occur) are generally mild. If you are concerned about any symptoms, or they do not improve, speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or prescriber.

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine for full details. If you experience severe or worrying symptoms, seek medical advice straight away. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

Olopatadine may not be suitable if you:

  • Are allergic to Olopatadine or any of the ingredients
  • Wear contact lenses constantly (you must remove them before use)
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek advice first)

FAQ's

What are Olopatadine eye drops used for?
They are used to treat itchy, red, and watery eyes caused by hayfever or other allergies.

How quickly do they work?
Relief often begins within minutes of application, with effects lasting up to 8 hours.

Can I use Olopatadine every day?
Yes — during allergy season, they can be used regularly as prescribed.

Can I wear contact lenses while using these drops?
You must remove your contact lenses before applying the drops and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in.

Can children use Olopatadine eye drops?
Yes, they are generally suitable from age 12 and above.

Do they cause drowsiness?
No — unlike oral antihistamines, Olopatadine works locally in the eyes and does not usually cause drowsiness.