Ketotifen: Targeted Mast Cell Stabilization for Allergic Relief
Ketotifen
| Product dosage: 1mg | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Package (num) | Per pill | Price | Buy |
| 60 | $1.12 | $67.00 (0%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 90 | $1.00 | $100.50 $90.00 (10%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 120 | $0.96 | $134.00 $115.00 (14%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 180 | $0.92 | $201.00 $165.00 (18%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 270 | $0.89 | $301.50 $240.00 (20%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
| 360 | $0.86
Best per pill | $402.00 $309.00 (23%) | 🛒 Add to cart |
Ketotifen is a second-generation antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer indicated for the prophylactic management of various allergic conditions. It functions by inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators from mast cells, thereby reducing the hypersensitivity response. Its dual mechanism offers both immediate and long-term control, making it a cornerstone in allergy prophylaxis, particularly in cases where first-line treatments are insufficient or poorly tolerated. Available in oral and ophthalmic formulations, it provides flexible administration tailored to specific clinical presentations.
Features
- Contains ketotifen fumarate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
- Available in 1 mg oral tablets and 0.025% ophthalmic solution
- Exhibits both H1-receptor antagonism and mast cell stabilizing properties
- Prevents degranulation and subsequent release of histamine, leukotrienes, and cytokines
- Suitable for long-term prophylactic use with established safety profiles
- Rapid onset of action with systemic bioavailability following oral administration
Benefits
- Provides sustained prevention of allergic reactions through mast cell stabilization
- Reduces frequency and severity of allergic asthma exacerbations when used prophylactically
- Alleviates ocular itching and redness in allergic conjunctivitis with topical application
- Minimizes reliance on rescue medications such as short-acting bronchodilators or corticosteroids
- Offers convenient once or twice-daily dosing depending on formulation and indication
- Demonstrates efficacy in both pediatric and adult populations with appropriate dosing
Common use
Ketotifen is primarily prescribed for the prophylaxis of mild to moderate allergic asthma, especially in cases where avoidance of triggers is impractical. It is also widely used for the prevention and treatment of allergic conjunctivitis, providing relief from itching, tearing, and photophobia. Off-label uses include management of allergic rhinitis, chronic urticaria, and certain dermatological conditions characterized by mast cell activation. Its role is generally preventive rather than acute; it is not intended for abortive therapy during an active asthma attack or anaphylaxis.
Dosage and direction
For oral administration in adults and children over 3 years, the typical dose is 1 mg twice daily, taken with water, with or without food. In some cases, a starting dose of 0.5–1 mg once daily may be used to assess tolerance. For ophthalmic use, instill one drop into the affected eye(s) every 8–12 hours. Dosage should be individualized based on severity, patient response, and concomitant therapies. Treatment should be initiated at least one week prior to expected allergen exposure for optimal prophylactic effect. Do not discontinue abruptly without medical consultation.
Precautions
Use with caution in patients with renal or hepatic impairment; dose adjustment may be necessary. Sedation may occur, particularly during initial therapy; patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until response is known. Alcohol and other CNS depressants may potentiate drowsiness. Not recommended during pregnancy unless potential benefit justifies potential risk; caution advised during breastfeeding. Periodic monitoring of intraocular pressure is recommended with long-term ophthalmic use. Patients with contact lenses should remove them prior to instillation and wait at least 10 minutes before reinsertion.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to ketotifen or any component of the formulation. Contraindicated in patients with acute porphyria. Ophthalmic formulation is contraindicated in active ocular infections. Not recommended in children under 3 years of age for oral use. Avoid use in patients with a history of significant bone marrow suppression. Concomitant use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated due to risk of serotonin syndrome.
Possible side effect
Common adverse reactions include drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and weight gain. Ophthalmic administration may cause transient burning, stinging, or conjunctival hyperemia. Less frequently reported effects include nausea, headache, irritability, and increased appetite. Rare but serious side effects include thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis, hepatitis, and anaphylactoid reactions. Paradoxical bronchospasm has been reported in asthmatic patients; discontinue immediately if it occurs. Most side effects are dose-dependent and often diminish with continued therapy.
Drug interaction
Ketotifen may potentiate effects of CNS depressants including alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids. Concurrent use with other anticholinergic agents may increase risk of dry mouth, constipation, or urinary retention. MAOIs may exacerbate sedative and anticholinergic effects. Ketotifen may interfere with skin testing results; discontinue at least 72 hours prior to allergy testing. No clinically significant interactions with theophylline or inhaled corticosteroids have been observed, though monitoring is advised.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one. For ophthalmic use, apply the missed dose as soon as possible and resume the regular schedule. Consistent daily use is important for maintaining prophylactic efficacy; consider setting reminders to improve adherence.
Overdose
Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, tachycardia, hypotension, and respiratory depression. Gastric lavage and activated charcoal may be considered if ingestion was recent. Supportive care should include monitoring of vital signs, ECG, and electrolyte balance. There is no specific antidote; treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding. Contact a poison control center immediately for guidance.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15–30°C) in a dry place, protected from light. Keep the bottle tightly closed. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. For ophthalmic solutions, avoid contaminating the tip of the dropper; discard four weeks after opening.
Disclaimer
This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment decisions, and personalized dosing. Do not initiate or discontinue medication without medical supervision. The manufacturer and publisher are not liable for any adverse effects resulting from the use or misuse of this information.
Reviews
Clinical studies and meta-analyses support ketotifen’s efficacy in reducing asthma exacerbations and improving quality of life in allergic patients. Many clinicians report satisfactory results in pediatric asthma prophylaxis, particularly in atopic individuals. User reviews often highlight reduced dependency on rescue inhalers and improved symptom control over time. Some note initial drowsiness as a drawback, though it often subsides with continued use. Ophthalmic formulations are frequently praised for rapid relief of eye-related allergy symptoms. Long-term safety data remain reassuring across age groups.