Ocular pruritus, Allergic conjunctivitis, Allergic rhinitis, Atopic dermatitis, Acute urticaria, Chronic urticaria
Ketotifen has anti-allergic properties and has been used similarly, to sodium chromoglycate in the prophylactic treatment of asthma. It also has the properties of an antihistamine. Ketotifen possesses marked anti-anaphylactic properties and is effective in preventing an asthmatic attacks. Ketotifen exerts as sustained inhibitory effect on histamine reactions, which can be clearly dissociated from its anti-anaphylactic properties. Experimental investigations in asthmatic subjects have shown that Ketotifen is as effective orally as a selective mast cell stabilizer administered by inhalation. Antihistamines were ineffective in those tests. The effectiveness of Ketotifen has been studied in long-term clinical trials. Asthma attacks were reduced in number, severity and duration and in some cases, the patients were completely freed from attacks. Progressive reduction of corticosteroids and/or bronchodilators was also possible. The prophylactic activity of Ketotifen may take several weeks to become fully established. Ketotifen will not abort established attacks of asthma.
For the temporary prevention of ocular pruritus due to allergic conjunctivitis. Ophthalmic dosage Adults, Adolescents, and Children >= 3 years One drop in the affected eye(s) every 8?12 hours. For the treatment of allergic conditions including allergic rhinitis?, atopic dermatitis?, and acute or chronic urticaria?. Oral dosage? NOTE: Oral formulation is not available in the US Adults, Adolescents, and Children > 3 years 1 mg PO every 12 hours. Ketotifen is also available in a sustained release oral formulation that allows for once daily dosing. If excessive sedation is a problem, treatment should be initiated at one-half the normal dose or the drug should be given at bedtime. Infants > 6 months and Children <= 3 years 0.5 mg PO every 12 hours.
Ketotifen may potentiate the effects of sedatives, hypnotics, antihistamines and alcohols. A reversible fall in the platelet count has been observed in a few patients receiving Tifen concomitantly with oral antidiabetic agents and it has been suggested that this combination should therefore be avoided.
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: seizures, any allergies (especially benzoate preservatives; in the liquid only). This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, rash, dizziness, or weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: trouble sleeping, nervousness, trouble breathing (either unrelated or worsening of asthma symptoms), nose bleeds. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: pain during urination, bladder pain, dark/bloody or pink-colored urine, stomach pain, yellowing eyes or skin, seizures. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
The reported features of overdosage include confusion, drowsiness, headache, bradycardia, respiratory depression etc. should be watched for. Elimination of the drug with gastric lavage or emessis is recommended. Otherwise, general supportive treatment is all that is required shall be instituted.
Store in a cool and dry place, protect from light. Keep out of the reach of children.