Description
Indications
The use of Tofen is recommended in the following situations:
- 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 tenderness that come with neurofibroma.
- Allergy symptoms such as hayfever and urticaria are treated symptomatically.
Pharmacology
Tofen has anti-allergic properties and has been used in the prophylactic treatment of asthma in a similar way to sodium chromoglycate. It has antihistamine properties as well. Ketotifen has strong anti-anaphylactic properties and is useful for preventing asthma attacks. Ketotifen has a long-lasting inhibitory effect on histamine reactions that can be distinguished from histamine.
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 observed in a few patients taking Tifen with oral antidiabetic agents, leading to the recommendation that this combination be avoided.
Contraindications
A reversible drop in platelet count has been observed in a few patients taking Ketotifen with an oral antidiabetic agent, leading to the recommendation that this combination be avoided. Despite the lack of evidence of a teratogenic effect, Ketotifen is not recommended during pregnancy or when breastfeeding is not possible..
Side Effects
Drowsiness, dry mouth, and slight dizziness may occur at the start of treatment, but they usually go away on their own after a few days.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Ketotifen is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation, despite the lack of evidence of teratogenic effects.
Precautions & Warnings
To avoid an asthma exacerbation, it is critical to continue the previous treatment for at least two weeks after starting Ketotifen. Because of the possibility of adrenocortical insufficiency in steroid-dependent patients, this is especially true for systemic corticosteroids and ACTH. Ketotifen treatment must be supplemented if intercurrent infection occurs.
Therapeutic Class
Cromoglycate and related medications
Storage Conditions
Keep the temperature below 30°C and away from light and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.
