Opatin DS0.2%

Opatin DS 0.2% is a dual-acting antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer used to relieve a wide range of allergic conditions across three dosage forms — eye drops, nasal spray and oral tablet.

Olopatadine Eye Drops are indicated for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, including itchy, watery, red and swollen eyes and eyelids. This covers conditions such as:

• Allergic conjunctivitis (seasonal and perennial)
• Vernal keratoconjunctivitis
• Vernal keratitis
• Blepharitis and blepharoconjunctivitis
• Giant papillary conjunctivitis

Olopatadine Nasal Spray is indicated for the relief of the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children 6 years of age and older.

Olopatadine Tablet is indicated for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (swelling of the nasal lining triggered by airborne pollen and mold spores) and allergic skin conditions. It helps relieve allergy symptoms such as skin rashes, swelling, hives (itchy, painful, stinging eruptions), itching, sneezing, and a runny or stuffy nose.

Ophthalmic Non-Steroid drugs

Olopatadine is an anti-allergic agent that relieves symptoms by blocking the action of histamine in the body. By interrupting the histamine-driven allergic cascade, it reduces sneezing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes and other nasal and ocular symptoms of allergy.

Mode of Action

Olopatadine works through several complementary mechanisms. As a mast cell stabilizer, it stabilizes conjunctival mast cells and inhibits the immunologically stimulated release of histamine. It also acts as a highly selective antagonist at histamine H1 receptors. By binding to the H1 receptor, olopatadine blocks the downstream signaling pathway and inhibits the release of key inflammatory mediators such as tryptase, prostaglandin D2, TNF-alpha and other pro-inflammatory cytokines. This dual antihistamine and mast-cell-stabilizing activity gives both rapid symptom relief and longer-term control.

Pharmacokinetics

• Absorption: Following twice-daily intranasal administration, peak plasma concentrations of olopatadine are observed between 30 minutes and 1 hour after dosing.
• Distribution: Protein binding is moderate at approximately 55% in human serum and remains independent of drug concentration over the range of 0.1 to 1000 ng/mL.
• Metabolism: Olopatadine is not extensively metabolized. At least six minor metabolites circulate in human plasma based on metabolite profiling.
• Elimination: The plasma elimination half-life is 8 to 12 hours, and olopatadine is eliminated mainly through urinary excretion.

Formal drug-drug interaction studies have not been conducted for Olopatadine Nasal Spray. Because olopatadine is eliminated predominantly by renal (urinary) excretion, interactions with inhibitors of liver enzymes are not anticipated. Similarly, interactions involving cytochrome P450 inhibition or plasma protein binding are not expected. As a precaution, always inform your doctor about all prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements you are using.

Most people tolerate Opatin DS 0.2% well, and side effects are generally mild. Headaches have been reported rarely. Other adverse effects that may occur include:

• Asthenia (weakness or lack of energy)
• Blurred vision
• Burning or stinging sensation in the eye
• Cold-like symptoms
• Dry eye and foreign body sensation
• Ocular hyperemia (eye redness)
• Hypersensitivity reactions
• Keratitis and eyelid edema
• Nausea
• Pharyngitis, rhinitis and sinusitis
• Pruritus (itching)
• Taste perversion (altered taste)

If any side effect persists or becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Pregnancy: Olopatadine was not found to be teratogenic in studies conducted on rats and rabbits. However, there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Olopatadine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit clearly justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Lactation: It is not known whether topical ocular administration results in enough systemic absorption to produce detectable amounts in human breast milk. Caution should therefore be exercised when olopatadine is administered to a nursing mother. Consult your physician before use during breastfeeding.

Observe the following precautions when using Opatin DS 0.2%:

Eye Drops

• Do not wear contact lenses while your eye is red. Olopatadine ophthalmic solution should not be used to treat contact-lens-related irritation.
• Benzalkonium chloride, the preservative in the eye drops, may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. Patients whose eyes are not red should wait at least 10 minutes after instilling the drops before inserting their soft contact lenses.
• Discontinue treatment if an allergic reaction develops.

Nasal Spray

• Before initial use, prime the pump by releasing about 5 sprays until a fine mist appears.
• If the spray has not been used for more than 7 days, re-prime by releasing 2 sprays.
• Avoid spraying the product into your eyes.

Tablet

• Use exactly as prescribed and take it at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medicine in your body.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Do not stop the medicine without consulting your doctor, as symptoms may return.

There is limited information available on olopatadine overdose. Nevertheless, excessive use of any medication can lead to serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention or contact your nearest emergency service without delay.

Store Opatin DS 0.2% at room temperature, away from direct light. For eye drops, it is advisable not to use the contents more than one month after first opening the bottle. Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and pets.

Geriatric Use: No overall differences in safety or effectiveness have been observed between elderly and younger adult patients. As with all medicines in older adults, treatment should be individualized and monitored by a physician.

Pediatric Use: Dosage varies by formulation — eye drops and nasal spray are approved from 6 years of age, while the tablet is used in children 7 years and older. Use in younger children should be guided by a doctor.