How Does Olopatadine Nasal Spray Work?
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to a normally harmless substance -- one that does not bother most people. This reaction is partly caused by the release of histamine from certain cells, known as mast cells.
Olopatadine nasal spray is an antihistamine nasal spray that works by preventing histamine from binding to histamine receptors. Since histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of allergies, blocking histamine can be very helpful.
Many allergy decongestant nasal sprays (especially non-prescription nasal sprays) can cause rebound congestion, which is worsening congestion when the medication is stopped. This can lead to dependence on the nasal spray. In order to avoid this problem, it is usually recommended that such medications be used only for a few days. However, olopatadine nasal spray is not a decongestant and does not cause rebound congestion; it can safely be used long-term without the risk of rebound congestion.
Olopatadine Nasal Spray Use in Children
Olopatadine nasal spray is approved to treat nasal allergies in children as young as 12 years old. It has not been studied in younger children. Talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of using olopatadine nasal spray in children.
Off-Label Olopatadine Nasal Spray Uses
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend olopatadine nasal spray for something other than nasal allergies.
Off-label olopatadine nasal spray uses include the treatment of the following conditions:
- Perennial (year-round) nasal allergies
- Vasomotor rhinitis (nasal symptoms due to irritants, not allergens).
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