• Starts working within minutes to relieve itching, redness, and watering
  • Provides up to 8 hours of targeted eye allergy relief per dose
  • Trusted branded version of olopatadine, widely prescribed by doctors

How it works?

Online Consultation

We ask you to complete a quick and easy consultation and get you started.

Choose condition

We have a selection of treatments available for various conditions.

Express Delivery

You will have complete visibility and control of your delivery.
Notice!

Before ordering this treatment, you may have to complete an online consultation

Overview

Allergic eye symptoms like relentless itching, redness, and watering can make everyday life exhausting. Opatanol eye drops provide fast, targeted relief directly where it’s needed, calming irritation and restoring clear, comfortable vision. As the branded version of Olopatadine, Opatanol offers trusted, prescription-strength relief — helping you face the day with clear eyes and confidence.

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


What is Opatanol 


Opatanol contains olopatadine hydrochloride, a powerful antihistamine eye drop used to treat seasonal allergic conjunctivitis — the red, itchy, and watery eye symptoms triggered by hay fever, dust, pets, or other allergens.

It works in two ways: by blocking histamine, which prevents the release of the chemical responsible for itching and redness, and by reducing inflammation, helping to ease irritation and swelling in the eyes.

Relief usually begins within minutes of application, with each dose lasting for up to 8 hours. Because it works directly in the eyes, Opatanol provides targeted relief right where it’s needed most. As the branded version of olopatadine, it is widely prescribed and trusted for effective control of allergy-related eye symptoms.

Directions

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


Always follow the instructions given by your prescriber.

Side Effects

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

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

  • Temporary stinging or burning after application – this usually settles within a few minutes of using the drops.
  • Dry eyes – some people may notice a temporary feeling of dryness or grittiness.
  • Headache – typically mild and short-lived.


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

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


Rare but serious (seek urgent medical help):

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


Most people tolerate Opatanol well, and side effects (if they do occur) are generally mild. If you are concerned about any symptoms, or if 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

Opatanol may not be suitable if you:

  • Are allergic to olopatadine or any of the ingredients
  • Wear contact lenses frequently (always remove before applying)
  • Are pregnant or breastfeeding (seek advice first)
Frequently asked questions

  • What is Opatanol and what is it used for?

    Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) is an antihistamine eye drop used to treat allergic conjunctivitis caused by pollen, pets or dust. It helps relieve red, itchy and watery eyes by blocking histamine in the eye tissues. Opatanol is often used during peak allergy seasons such as spring and summer.

  • How does Opatanol work to relieve eye allergies?

    Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) blocks the release of histamine, the chemical responsible for redness, itching and swelling during an allergic reaction. By reducing inflammation around the surface of the eye, symptoms usually become milder and less frequent with continued use.

  • How quickly does Opatanol start working?

    Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) can begin easing symptoms within minutes, although full relief may take a day or two with regular use. It is most effective when used consistently during allergy exposure, rather than only when symptoms feel severe.

  • How do I use Opatanol eye drops correctly?

    Wash your hands, tilt your head back and place one drop into the lower eyelid without touching the eye. Blink gently to spread the drop, and repeat for the other eye if required. Keep a gap from contact lenses and avoid contaminating the bottle tip.

  • Can I use Opatanol every day during allergy season?

    Yes. Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) is designed for regular daily use during pollen seasons or continuous exposure to triggers like dust or pet dander. Using it consistently helps maintain symptom control over long periods.

  • What side effects can Opatanol cause?

    Some people may notice mild stinging, temporary blurred vision, dryness or a slightly bitter taste after use. These effects are usually short lived and improve as your eyes adjust. Persistent irritation should be reviewed by a clinician.

  • Can I use Opatanol with oral antihistamines?

    Yes. Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) can be used alongside tablets such as cetirizine or fexofenadine for stronger overall allergy control. This combination is often recommended when eye symptoms are severe or accompanied by nasal congestion.

  • Can I wear contact lenses while using Opatanol?

    You should remove contact lenses before applying Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride).  Wait at least 10–15 minutes before reinserting them to avoid irritation and ensure the medicine absorbs properly. People with soft lenses may notice more dryness during allergy season.

  • Is Opatanol suitable for children?

    Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) may be prescribed for children depending on age and symptoms. Some younger children may require alternative formulations. Always follow clinician or pharmacist guidance when using allergy eye drops in children.

  • Can Opatanol help with severe itching caused by pollen?

    Yes. Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) is particularly effective for itchiness triggered by pollen exposure. Its antihistamine action reduces the release of inflammatory chemicals that make eyes feel irritated during high pollen days.

  • Can Opatanol be used for pet or dust allergies?

    Yes. Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) works for year-round eye allergies caused by indoor triggers like cats, dogs, dust mites or mould. Daily use can significantly reduce flare-ups during continuous exposure.

  • What should I do if Opatanol stings when applied?

    Mild stinging is common and usually settles within seconds. If it persists, check technique, spacing from contact lenses and expiry date. Switching to a preservative-free option may help if sensitivity continues.

  • Can I drive after using Opatanol?

    Vision may blur briefly after applying Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride). Wait until your sight is clear before driving or using machinery. This usually takes only a few minutes and does not affect most daily routines. If this problems persists, seek guidance from your pharmacist or clinician.

  • What should I do if I miss a dose of Opatanol?

    Use the next dose as soon as you remember, unless your next scheduled dose is due soon. Do not apply extra drops to catch up, as this increases irritation. Consistent use provides the best allergy control.

  • Can I buy Opatanol online safely?

    Yes. Opatanol (olopatadine hydrochloride) can be purchased from UK-registered online pharmacies once a suitability check is completed. This ensures safe use, especially for people who also take other allergy treatments.