Description
Generic
Indications
Ketotifen is prescribed for the following conditions:
- As a preventative measure for bronchial asthma.
- Allergic disorders such as rhinitis and conjunctivitis are treated symptomatically.
- For the treatment of neurofibroma consequences such as itching, pain, and soreness.
- Treatment of allergy symptoms such as hayfever and urticaria.
Pharmacology
Ketotifen has anti-allergic characteristics and has been utilized in the preventive treatment of asthma in the same way as sodium chromoglycate has. It also functions as an antihistamine. Ketotifen has strong anti-anaphylactic effects and is useful in avoiding asthma episodes. Ketotifen has a long-lasting inhibitory impact on histamine responses that is distinct from its anti-anaphylactic effects. Ketotifen is as effective orally as an inhaled selective mast cell stabilizer in asthmatic patients, according to experimental research. In such experiments, antihistamines were unsuccessful.Ketotifen’s efficacy has been examined in long-term clinical studies. Asthma episodes were reduced in number, intensity, and length, and patients were totally free of attacks in certain situations. It was also feasible to gradually reduce corticosteroids and/or bronchodilators. Ketotifen’s prophylactic action may take several weeks to become completely established. Ketotifen will not stop existing asthma episodes.
Dosage & Administration
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 enhanced by ketotifen. A reversible decrease in platelet count has been seen in a few individuals using Tifen concurrently with oral antidiabetic medications, leading to the suggestion that this combination be avoided.
Contraindications
A reversible decrease in platelet count has been reported in a few individuals using Ketotifen in conjunction with an oral anti-diabetic medication, and it has been advised that this combination be avoided. Although there is no indication of teratogenicity, Ketotifen should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Drowsiness, dry mouth, and minor dizziness may occur at the start of therapy but generally go away on their own within a few days.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Despite the lack of evidence of teratogenicity, Ketotifen should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Precautions & Warnings
To avoid asthma aggravation, it is critical to maintain the prior medication for at least two weeks after commencing Ketotifen. This is especially true with systemic corticosteroids and ACTH, due to the possibility of adrenocortical insufficiency in steroid-dependent patients. If an intercurrent infection arises, Ketotifen medication must be augmented with specialized antibiotic therapy. Reactions may be impaired on the first day of Ketotifen therapy, and patients should be advised not to drive or operate equipment until the impact of Ketotifen treatment on the person is understood.Patients should be encouraged to abstain from alcoholic beverages. Sedatives, hypnotics, antihistamines, and alcohol may be enhanced by ketotifen.
Therapeutic Class
Storage Conditions
Keep cool and dry, and keep away from direct sunlight. Keep out of children’s reach.
