Generic
Ketotifen
90 brands available in the market
At a glance
Ketotifen is a prescription medicine used to prevent asthma symptoms. It helps reduce the number and severity of asthma attacks by decreasing inflammation in the lungs. It can be taken with or without food but taking it at the same time provides maximum benefit.
Description
Ketotifen is a potent anti-allergic substance that acts as a non-competitive histamine (H1) receptor blocker. It inhibits the release of mediators from cells responsible for type I allergic reactions, stabilizes mast cells, decreases chemotaxis, and inhibits eosinophil activation and degranulation. This medicine helps prevent asthma symptoms and is also effective in treating allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis. Ketotifen reduces lung inflammation, prevents airway spasm, and helps control allergic reactions.
Indications
- Prevention of asthma symptoms
- Reducing airway inflammation and spasm
- Allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis (systemic form)
Therapeutic class
Anti-allergic & Anti-asthma
Pharmacological class
Mast Cell Stabilizer + H1 Antihistamine
Pharmacology
Ketotifen is a potent anti-allergic substance that acts as a non-competitive histamine (H1) receptor blocker. It inhibits the release of mediators (histamine, leukotrienes, etc.) from cells responsible for type I allergic reactions, stabilizes mast cells, decreases chemotaxis, and inhibits eosinophil activation and degranulation. Through these actions, it reduces allergic inflammation and airway hyperreactivity.
Mechanism of action
Ketotifen blocks histamine (H1) receptors and stabilizes mast cells to reduce allergic reactions and inflammation. It inhibits the release of allergic mediators and prevents airway spasm to help control asthma symptoms.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Dosage is determined as per physician's advice
- Usually 1 mg twice daily (morning and evening)
- Can be taken with or without food, but at a fixed time is preferable
- Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your condition
Child Dose: Dosage is determined as per physician's advice.
Administration
- Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush or break
- Take at the same time each day (e.g., morning and evening)
- Can be taken with or without food
- Swallow the tablet with a drink of water
- Continue taking as long as prescribed by your doctor
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time.
Side effects
Common Side Effects:
- Hyperactivity
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbance (insomnia or vivid dreams)
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
Rare Side Effects:
- Weight gain
- Nausea
- Allergic reactions
Precautions & warnings
- Medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness; avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery
- Inform your doctor if you have epilepsy (seizures) or diabetes
- Ketotifen may interact with other medicines; inform your doctor about all medications you are taking
- Consult your doctor if symptoms do not improve or if side effects become bothersome
- May cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol
- Generally not safe during pregnancy; consult your doctor if needed
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity (allergy) to Ketotifen or any of its components
Drug interactions
- May cause excessive drowsiness when used with alcohol
- Caution required when used with other sedatives or sleep medications
- Avoid combination with antihistamines and other CNS depressants
Food interactions
Ketotifen may cause excessive drowsiness when used with alcohol. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Ketotifen.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Ketotifen may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and potential risks before prescribing this medication. Consult your doctor before using Ketotifen during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: Ketotifen is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby. However, inform your doctor if you notice any reaction in the baby. Consult your doctor before using Ketotifen during lactation.
Pediatric use
Limited information is available on the safety and efficacy of Ketotifen in children. Use in children should be as directed by a physician.
Geriatric use
Use with caution in elderly patients. Elderly patients may be at higher risk of side effects.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Limited information is available on the use of Ketotifen in patients with kidney disease. Consult your doctor if you have kidney problems.
Hepatic Impairment: Limited information is available on the use of Ketotifen in patients with liver disease. Consult your doctor if you have liver problems.
Overdose effects
Overdose symptoms of Ketotifen may be similar to the side effects. Excessive doses may cause drowsiness, confusion, rapid heartbeat, etc. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture, in a dry place. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiry date.
Chemical structure
Ketotifen