The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three drugs for non-prescription, or over-the-counter use via a process called a prescription (Rx)-to-OTC switch, it was reported on Friday.

The FDA approved Voltaren Arthritis Pain (diclofenac sodium topical gel, 1%) intended for the temporary relief of arthritis pain; Pataday Twice Daily Relief (olopatadine HCl ophthalmic solution/drops, 0.1%) intended for the temporary relief of itchy and red eyes due to pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair or dander; and Pataday Once Daily Relief (olopatadine HCl ophthalmic solution/drops, 0.2%) for the temporary relief of itchy eyes due to pollen, ragweed, grass, animal hair or dander, for non-prescription use.

The FDA granted the approval of non-prescription Voltaren Arthritis Pain to GlaxoSmithKline plc. Approvals of non-prescription Pataday Twice Daily Relief and Pataday Once Daily Relief was granted to Alcon.

The three products will be marketed in the United States as non-prescription drugs and will no longer be offered as prescription drugs.