This randomized, observer-masked, single-center, crossover study included 30 patients with ocular
itching associated with
allergic conjunctivitis accompanied by nasal symptoms. Patients were treated with
bepotastine besilate 1.5% twice daily (7 am and 4 pm) or
olopatadine hydrochloride 0.2% once daily (7 am) for 14 days. Following a 7-day washout period during which only preservative-free
artificial tears were used twice daily, patients were crossed over to the alternative treatment for 14 days. Parameters evaluated by twice-daily patient diaries included each treatment's ability to relieve ocular itch, ability to relieve itchy/
runny nose, ability to relieve ocular
allergy symptoms, and
eye drop comfort. At the conclusion of the study, patients were also asked to identify which agent provided better all-day relief of ocular
itching, better all-day relief of itchy/
runny nose, superior comfort, and for which treatment they would prefer a prescription.
RESULTS: CONCLUSION: