Treatment

Pataday / Olopatadine 0.2% and 0.7%

Also known as Olopatadine Allergy Drops, Pataday Once Daily Relief, Pataday Extra Strength, Eye Allergy Itch Drops, Antihistamine Eye Drops

Updated May 19, 2026For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for medical advice. See our terms.

Bottom Line

Pataday is an olopatadine allergy eye drop. It helps itchy eyes from pollen, pet dander, grass, and ragweed.

Pataday is olopatadine, an antihistamine eye drop for eye allergy itch. The 0.2% and 0.7% labels list once-daily use 1 2.

It is for itchy eyes from pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair, and dander. It is not for contact lens irritation 1.

Stop and ask a doctor for eye pain, vision changes, more redness, or itch that lasts over 72 hours 2.

How It Works

Pataday contains olopatadine. The product labels list it as an antihistamine for temporary relief of itchy allergy eyes 1 2.

Histamine is one allergy signal that can make eyes itch, water, and swell. An antihistamine blocks that signal.

How To Use

Use the strength and directions on your own bottle. For 0.2% and 0.7%, the label says one drop in each affected eye once daily 1 2.

  • Wash your hands first.
  • Do not touch the bottle tip to your eye.
  • Wait at least 5 minutes between different eye products.
  • Do not use it for contact lens irritation.

Side Effects and Safety

Stop use and ask a doctor for eye pain, vision changes, more redness, or itching that lasts more than 72 hours 2.

Do not wear contact lenses if your eye is red. Remove lenses before the drop and wait before reinserting them.

Cost and Insurance

Pataday is usually bought without a prescription. Insurance often does not cover over-the-counter allergy drops.

  • Store brands may cost less.
  • Compare the active ingredient and strength.
  • Do not mix strengths to exceed the label dose.
  • Ask a pharmacist if you use other eye medicines.

Common Questions About Pataday

Pataday is mainly for allergy itch. Redness from pain, infection, injury, or contact lenses needs an eye exam.

Next Steps

  1. 1Match the bottle strength to the directions before using it.
  2. 2Remove contact lenses before the drop and wait before putting them back in.
  3. 3Use artificial tears or cold compresses for extra comfort if needed.
  4. 4Stop and ask a doctor for pain, vision change, discharge, or worse redness.
  5. 5Book an eye exam if allergy drops do not control symptoms.

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