Generic

Ketotifen Fumarate

Indications

Ketotifen is used for the treatment of bronchial asthma as a preventative measure.

Allergic disorders such as rhinitis and conjunctivitis are treated symptomatically.

It’s used to treat the itching, discomfort, and soreness that come with neurofibroma.

Allergy symptoms such as hayfever and urticaria are treated symptomatically.

Pharmacology

Ketotifen has anti-allergic effects and has been utilized in the preventive treatment of asthma in a similar way as sodium chromoglycate. It has antihistamine characteristics as well. Ketotifen has strong anti-anaphylactic effects and is useful for avoiding asthma episodes. Ketotifen has a long-lasting inhibitory impact on histamine responses, which is distinct from its anti-anaphylactic effects. Ketotifen is as effective orally as a selective mast cell stabilizer given by inhalation in asthmatic patients, according to research. In such experiments, antihistamines were unsuccessful. Long-term clinical trials have been conducted to determine the efficacy of Ketotifen. The number, severity, and length of asthma episodes were decreased, and in some cases, the patients were totally free of attacks. It was also feasible to gradually reduce corticosteroids and/or bronchodilators. It may take several weeks for Ketotifen’s prophylactic action to become completely established. Ketotifen will not stop an asthma episode that has already started.

Dosage & Administration

Adults: 1 mg twice daily with food. If necessary the dose may be increased to 2 mg twice daily in severe cases.

Children above 3 years: 1 mg twice daily with food. Patients known to be easily sedated should begin treatment with 0.5 to 1 mg at night for the first few days or as directed by the physician.

Use in elderly: Same as adult dose or as advised by the physician.

Interaction

Sedatives, hypnotics, antihistamines, and alcohols may be amplified by ketotifen. A reversible decrease in platelet count has been seen in a few individuals using Tifen with oral antidiabetic medications, leading to the recommendation that this combination be avoided.

Contraindications

A reversible drop in platelet count has been seen in a few individuals using Ketotifen with an oral antidiabetic medication, leading to the recommendation that this combination be avoided. Despite the lack of evidence of a teratogenic impact, Ketotifen is not recommended during pregnancy or when breastfeeding is not possible.

Side Effect

Drowsiness, dry mouth, and minor dizziness may occur at the start of therapy, although they generally go away on their own within a few days.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Ketotifen is not advised during pregnancy or breastfeeding, despite the lack of evidence of teratogenic effects.

Precautions & Warnings

It is important to continue the previous treatment for a minimum of two weeks after starting Ketotifen to avoid the possibility of exacerbation of asthma. This applies specially to systemic corticosteroids and ACTH because of the possible existence of adrenocortical insufficiency in steroid dependent patient. If inter current infection occurs, Ketotifen treatment must be supplemented by specific antimicrobial therapy. During the first day of treatment with Ketotifen, reactions may be impaired and patients should be warned not to take charge of vehicle or machinery until the effect of Ketotifen treatment on the individual is known. Patients should be advised to avoid alcoholic drinks. Ketotifen may potentiate the effects of sedatives, hypnotics, antihistamines and alcohol.

Therapeutic Class

Cromoglycate & related drugs

Storage Conditions

Keep in a dry place away from light and heat. Keep out of the reach of children.

Pharmaceutical Name

Drug International Ltd.