Ketotifen is a potent antihistamine, which exhibits strong H1 receptor-blocking activity. Also, it stabilizes mast cells and basophils and inhibits PAF (platelet activating factor) and is effective in preventing asthmatic attacks.
Indications
– Prophylactic treatment of bronchial asthma
– Allergic rhinitis
– Allergic conditions such as hay fever, itchy rash or reactions to insect bites.
– Allergic conjunctivitis
Dosage & Administration
Tablet
Adult: 1-2 mg two times daily with food. Child: Over 2 years of age, 1 mg two times daily with food. Under 2 years, not recommended.
Syrup
6 months to 3 years:
0.25 ml / kg body weight, twice daily (Once in the morning & once in the evening).
Eye Drop
Adults and children 3 years and older :1 drop in the affected eye(s)
twice daily, every 8-12 hours, not more than twice per day.
Children under 3 years of age: Consult with a doctor.
Contraindications
Concomitant therapy of Ketotifen and oral antidiabetics should be avoided. Hypersensitivity to Ketotifen or any other components of the formulation.
Warnings & Precautions
Treatment with existing antiasthmatic agent should be continued for at least 2 weeks after initiation of ketotifen treatment owing to the risk of exacerbation of asthma.
Side Effects
The symptomatic side effects of Ketotifen are few and relatively minor. The common side effects are drowsiness, dry mouth and slight dizziness and occasionally CNS stimulation and weight gain. The incidence of drowsiness appears to decline during extended period of treatment. Fewer side effects are reported in children.
Drug Interaction
A reversible fall in the platelet count has been seen in a few patients receiving ketotifen with oral antidiabetics and it has been suggested that this combination should therefore be avoided. Since ketotifen has the properties of the antihistamines, it may potentiate the effects of other CNS depressant drugs such as alcohol, antihistamines, hypnotics, and sedatives.
Use in special groups
Pregnancy: Its safety in human pregnancy has not been established. Ketotifen should therefore be given to pregnant women only in compelling circumstances.
Lactation: Ketotifen is excreted in breast milk. Therefore mothers receiving Ketotifen should not breast-feed.
Overdose
The reported features of over dosage include confusion, drowsiness, disorientation, headache, bradycardia and respiratory depression. Elimination of the drug with gastric lavage or emesis is recommended. Otherwise general supportive treatment is all that is required shall be instituted.
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