Trade names Zaditor Molar mass 309.426 g/mol Bioavailability 60% | MedlinePlus a604033 CAS ID 34580-14-8 Protein binding 75% | |
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AHFS/Drugs.com Micromedex Detailed Consumer Information Pregnancy
category US: C (Risk not ruled out) Routes of
administration Oral (tablets), ophthalmic solution ATC code R06AX17 (WHO) S01GX08 (WHO) | ||
Ketotifen is a first-generation noncompetitive H1-antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer. It is most commonly sold as a salt with fumaric acid, ketotifen fumarate, and is available in two forms. In its ophthalmic form, it is used to treat allergic conjunctivitis. In its oral form, it is used to prevent asthma attacks or Anaphylaxis, as well as various mast cell, allergic-type disorders.
Contents
Ketotifen is an over the counter medication used to temporarily relieve itchy eyes
Uses
Ketotifen relieves and prevents eye itchiness and/or irritation associated with most seasonal allergies. It starts working within minutes after administering the drops. The drug has not been studied in children under three. The mean elimination half life is 12 hours. Besides its anti-histaminic activity, it is also a functional leukotriene antagonist and a phosphodiesterase inhibitor.
"[O]ral ketotifen has been used in patients with asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, chronic urticaria, cold-induced urticaria, cholinergic urticaria, exercise-induced urticaria, [systemic mast cell disease including mastocytosis, MCAS, allergic and nonallergic anaphylaxis, angioedema], and food allergy in Canada, Europe, and Mexico." Now available via prescription at US compounding pharmacies: "For adults and older children with asthma or allergic disease, the recommended dose of ketotifen is 1 mg twice daily." "FDA staff did recommend more extensive evaluations for management of urticaria."
The drug may also help relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Side effects
Side effects include drowsiness, weight gain, dry mouth, irritability, and increased nosebleeds.
Brands
Ketotifen is marketed under many brand names worldwide.