Olopatadine nasal spray

What is this medicine?

OLOPATADINE (oh loe pa TA deen) is a histamine blocker. It helps to relieve itching, running, and stuffiness in the nose. This medicine is used to treat nasal symptoms from allergies and other irritants.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for use in the nose. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not use more often than directed. Ask your doctor or health care provider if you have any questions.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• sores in the nose

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• changes in taste

• cough

• dry mouth

• headache

• nose bleeds

• nose or throat irritation

• tiredness

What may interact with this medicine?

• alcohol

• medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances

• medicines for sleep

• narcotic medicines for pain

• other medicines for allergies like diphenhydramine

• phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 4 and 25 degrees C (39 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date or after 240 sprays.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• sores or ulcers in your nose

• an unusual or allergic reaction to olopatadine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.