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# FDA OTC Switch for Voltaren and Pataday Drugs
- URL: https://www.fdaweb.com/fda-otc-switch-for-voltaren-and-pataday-drugs/
- Published: 2020-02-18T12:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-14T16:03:32.000Z
- Author: David McFarland
- Tags: Drugs, #legacy-id-D5146114

FDA has approved the switch of three prescription drugs to over-the-counter status for GlaxoSmithKline’s Voltaren (diclofenac sodium topical gel, 1%), Alcon’s Pataday (olopatadine HCl ophthalmic solution/drops, 0.1%) twice daily and Pataday (olopatadine HCl ophthalmic solution/drops, 0.2%) once daily. Voltaren is indicated for temporary relief of arthritis pain, and both Pataday products are indicated for the temporary relief of itchy and red eyes due to pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair or dander.

The approvals followed “Rx-to-OTC switch” submissions that included data demonstrating that the drugs are “safe and effective for use in self-medication as directed in proposed labeling,” an FDA [news release ](https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-three-drugs-nonprescription-use-through-rx-otc-switch-process?utm%5Fcampaign=022420%5FPR%5FFDA%20Approves%20Three%20Drugs%20for%20Nonprescription%20Use&utm%5Fmedium=email&utm%5Fsource=Eloqua)says. “The manufacturer must show that consumers can understand how to use the drug safely and effectively without the supervision of a healthcare professional,” the agency says.

Voltaren was first approved in 2007; Pataday Twice Daily was approved in 1996 under the name Patanol; and Pataday Once Daily was approved in 2004\. All three products will now be marketed in the U.S. as nonprescription drugs and will no longer be available as prescription drugs, FDA says.