Overview of Ketotifen
Ketotifen is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of the body's natural chemical histamine, which can cause symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and a runny nose. It is available as an ophthalmic solution (for the eyes) to relieve itching caused by allergies to dust, pollen, pets, or other allergens. Additionally, Ketotifen is used as an asthma medication in combination with other antiasthma drugs to reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of asthma attacks in children.
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Ketotifen Uses
- Allergic/Seasonal Conjunctivitis: Prevents and treats itching in the eyes caused by allergies.
- Asthma: Long-term medication for children to avoid or reduce wheezing and troubled breathing, used in conjunction with other asthma drugs like corticosteroids and inhaled beta-agonists.
How Ketotifen Works
- Antihistamine Effect: Blocks histamine, a natural substance that causes allergic symptoms.
- Mast Cell Stabilizer: Prevents the release of natural compounds that cause allergic reactions and reduces inflammation, airway spasms, and other asthma and allergy symptoms.
Ketotifen Side Effects
Common side effects include:
Precautions
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to Ketotifen or any related medications.
- Medical History: Inform your doctor of any eye problems, itching, irritation, or lung diseases.
- Vision: May cause temporary blurred vision. Avoid driving or operating machinery until vision is clear.
- Children: Not recommended for children under three without a doctor's advice.
How to Use Ketotifen
Oral Administration:
- Take twice a day.
- Tablets should not be crushed or chewed.
- Take daily for safety and effectiveness.
- Dosage may be increased gradually over the first week to reduce drowsiness.
- Full effects may take several weeks (usually within 10 weeks).
- Other asthma medications may be gradually reduced after 2-3 months of use.
Eye Drops:
- Apply 1 drop to the affected eye(s) twice a day (every 8 to 12 hours) or as directed.
- Follow instructions on the package or from your doctor.
- Clean hands before use.
- Do not touch the dropper tip to prevent contamination.
- Remove contact lenses before use.
- Apply 1 drop in the lower eyelid and close eyes gently for 1-2 minutes.
Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Overdose
An overdose of eye drops can cause severe side effects like headaches, eye irritation, and dry eyes. Contact a doctor immediately if an overdose is suspected.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
Pregnancy Breastfeeding:
- Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant. Use only if the benefits outweigh the risks.
- Ketotifen eye drops generally have no side effects during breastfeeding, but consult a doctor before use.
Storage
- Store at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
- Keep away from heat, air, and light.
- Store in a safe place out of reach of children.
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