What is ketotifen fumarate ophthalmic solution used for?

Ketotifen ophthalmic (eye) solution is used to temporarily prevent itching of the eye caused by a condition known as allergic conjunctivitis. It works by acting on certain cells, called mast cells, to prevent them from releasing substances that cause the allergic reaction.

Is ketotifen safe for eyes?

Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: dry eyes, eye pain, increased redness/swelling of the eye, vision problems. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.

Do you need a prescription for ketotifen?

Now available Over-The-Counter (OTC); No prescription needed. Zaditor® (ketotifen fumarate) is an antihistamine eye drop to relieve itchy eyes due to allergens.

How often can you use ketotifen fumarate eye drops?

Adults and children 3 years of age and older—Use one drop in each affected eye every 8 to 12 hours. Children up to 3 years of age—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

What are the side effects of ketotifen?

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, trouble sleeping or flu- like symptoms might occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Unlikely but report promptly: unusual weight gain, stomach pain, rash.

How long does it take for ketotifen eye drops to work?

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not start to improve in 2 or 3 days. Report any serious side effects promptly. Stop using this medicine if your eyes get swollen, painful, or have a discharge, and see your doctor or health care professional as soon as you can.

How long can you use ketotifen eye drops?

Eye drops only keep for four weeks once the bottle has been opened, so do not use ketotifen drops if the bottle has been open for longer than this. This will help to prevent the risk of eye infections.

Is ketotifen a steroid?

It is classified as an antiallergic drug and is used as a prophylactic medicine. Some trials have suggested that ketotifen has similar efficacy to cromoglicate in asthma [4] and also a small steroid-sparing effect [5]. It is more effective than placebo in the treatment of atopic dermatitis [6].

Does ketotifen raise blood pressure?

The first dose of xamoterol significantly increased resting heart rate and systolic blood pressure and significantly shortened QS2c. The last dose of xamoterol after 2 weeks of treatment still produced the same responses. Ketotifen did not influence these effects of xamoterol on resting haemodynamics.

Can I take ketotifen at night?

Adults and children 3 years of age and older—The usual dose is 1 milligram (mg) (1 tablet or 5 milliliters [mL] of syrup) twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening.

Do antihistamines affect your heart?

Antihistamines, which are commonly used to treat symptoms such as a runny nose or sneezing, are generally safe for patients with abnormal heart conditions. However, the FDA has warned that antihistamines taken in conjunction with some high blood pressure medications may cause a spike in blood pressure.