Naphcon A vs. Pataday

Naphcon A (naphazoline hydrochloride and pheniramine maleate) and Pataday (olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) are used for the temporary relief of redness and itching of the eye(s) due to allergic conditions.

Both Naphcon A and Pataday contain an antihistamine. Naphcon A also contains a decongestant/redness reliever.

Both Naphcon A and Pataday are available over-the-counter (OTC).

Side effects of Naphcon A and Pataday that are similar include burning/stinging/redness/dryness/ irritation/itching of the eye and blurred vision.

Side effects of Naphcon A that are different from Pataday include dilated pupils.

Side effects of Pataday that are different from Naphcon A include headache, swollen or puffy eyelids, stuffy or runny nose, cough, sore throat, weakness, back pain, a feeling as if something is in your eye, and unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

Naphcon A may interact with MAO inhibitors, drugs for high blood pressure, and tricyclic antidepressants.

Pataday may interact with other drugs.

Common side effects of Naphcon A include:

• eye stinging or redness,
• dilated pupils, or
• blurred vision

Common side effects of Pataday include:

• headache,
• blurred vision,
• burning/stinging/redness/dryness/ irritation/itching of the eye,
• swollen or puffy eyelids,
• stuffy or runny nose,
• cough,
• sore throat,
• weakness,
• back pain,
• a feeling as if something is in your eye, or
• unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth.

A serious allergic reaction to Pataday is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if you have symptoms including:

• rash,
• itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat),
• dizziness, or
• trouble breathing.

Naphcon A (naphazoline hydrochloride and pheniramine maleate) is a combination of a decongestant/redness reliever and an antihistamine used for the temporary relief of redness and itching of the eye(s) due to ragweed pollen, grass, and animal dander and hair. Naphcon A is available over-the-counter (OTC).

Pataday (olopatadine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution) is an antihistamine used to treat ocular (eye) symptoms of allergic conditions, such as inflammation, itching, watering, and burning.

Naphcon A may interact with:

• MAO inhibitors,
• drugs for high blood pressure, and
• tricyclic antidepressants

Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

Other drugs may interact with Pataday ophthalmic. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements you use.

The dose of Naphcon A for adults and children 6 years and over is 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily.

The recommended dose of Pataday is one drop in each affected eye once a day.