Ketotifen
About
Ketotifen belongs to a class of anti-histamine or anti-allergic drugs used to treat various allergic conditions. On the other hand, it can treat mild atopic asthma symptoms by decreasing lung inflammation. An allergy is an immune system response to foreign elements typically not harmful to your body. These foreign elements are known as ‘allergens.’ Allergic condition varies from person to person. Some might be allergic to certain foods and seasonal allergies like hay fever. At the same time, others might be allergic to pollen or pet dander.
Ketotifen contains Ketotifen, an anti-histamine which is used to treat allergies. It blocks the effects of a chemical messenger known as ‘histamine,’ which is naturally involved in allergic reactions. Thus, Ketotifen effectively treats allergic conditions.
Take Ketotifen as prescribed by your doctor. Depending on your medical condition, you are advised to take Ketotifen for as long as your doctor prescribes it. Ketotifen may cause irritation, drowsiness, hyperactivity, and sleep disturbances. Most of these side effects of Ketotifen do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects are persistent, reach out to your doctor.
Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any component present in the Ketotifen or if you have diabetes or epilepsy. Ketotifen is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women as it is a pregnancy category C drug. Before taking Ketotifen, inform your doctor about your medical history and other medications you are now taking to rule out any potential adverse effects or interactions. Ketotifen may be impaired to your ability to drive or operate machinery during the first days of treatment. So drive or operate machinery only if you are alert.
Uses of Ketotifen
Medicinal Benefits
Ketotifen belongs to a class of anti-histamine or anti-allergic drugs primarily used to treat various allergies. It can also help to treat mild atopic asthma symptoms by decreasing lung inflammation. Additionally, Ketotifen also treats hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) caused due to various allergens. Ketotifen contains Ketotifen, an anti-histamine; it blocks the effects of a chemical messenger known as ‘histamine,’ which is naturally involved in allergic reactions. As a result, Ketotifen effectively lowers allergic symptoms.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Ketotifen
- Irritation or Irritability
- Drowsiness
- Hyperactivity reactions
- Sleep disturbances or Inability to sleep (insomnia)
- Agitation or Nervousness
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Do not take Ketotifen if you are allergic to Ketotifen or its ingredients. Ketotifen is known to interact with epilepsy and liver impairment. It is advisable to avoid alcohol to prevent the chance of adverse effects such as dizziness. Before taking Ketotifen, inform your doctor about your medical history and other medications you are now taking to rule out any potential adverse effects or interactions. Although there is no evidence of teratogenic consequences, using the Ketotifen during pregnancy is not suggested. Ketotifen is excreted into human milk; therefore, mothers receiving the drug should not breastfeed.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Ketotifen may interact with other antihistamines (e.g. diphenhydramine), antidepressants (e.g. doxepin), anticoagulants (e.g. warfarin) and hypoglycemic drugs (e.g. metformin).
Drug-Food Interactions: No interactions found or established.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Ketotifen may interact with disease conditions, including epilepsy and liver insufficiency.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeKetotifen can cause excessive drowsiness if taken along with alcohol.
Pregnancy
cautionKetotifen is not recommended to be used in pregnancy. If you have any concerns, please consult your doctor.
Breast Feeding
cautionKetotifen is not recommended to be used in breastfeeding. If you have any concerns, please consult your doctor.
Driving
cautionDuring the first few days of treatment, your ability to drive or operate machinery may be impacted. So, only drive or use machinery if you are alert.
Liver
cautionKetotifen should be taken with caution, especially if you have a history of liver diseases. Your doctor may adjust the dose of Ketotifen depending on your medical condition and your reaction to treatment.
Kidney
cautionKetotifen should be taken with caution, especially if you have a pre-existing or a history of kidney disease. Your doctor may adjust the dose of Ketotifen depending on your medical condition and your reaction to treatment.
Children
cautionKetotifen is not recommended for children below the age of 3 years.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Staying hydrated is vital for those with a cough or cold. Drinking liquids at room temperature can alleviate cough, runny nose, and sneezing.
- The immune system is affected by stress and raises the risk of being sick. An individual can exercise regularly, meditate, do deep breathing, and try progressive muscle relaxation techniques to relieve stress.
- Try to sleep 7-9 hours each night to stay fit and safe.
- It is advised to avoid contact with known allergens (allergy-causing agents) such as pollen, dust, etc. Certain food items are known to cause allergies to you.
- Maintain personal hygiene and keep your surroundings clean.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Allergy: Allergy is an immune system response to foreign elements typically not harmful to your body. These foreign elements are known as ‘allergens.’ Allergic condition varies from person to person. Some might be allergic to certain foods and seasonal allergies like hay fever. At the same time, others might be allergic to pollen or pet dander.
Atopic asthma: Atopic asthma is the most prevalent type of asthma, affecting 70-90% of children and approximately 50% of adults. The typical symptoms are caused by exposure to environmental proteins known as allergens.
FAQs
Ketotifen contains Ketotifen, an antihistamine; it works by blocking the effect of a chemical messenger known as ‘histamine,’ which is naturally involved in allergic reactions. As a result, Ketotifen effectively lowers allergic symptoms or conditions.
It is recommended not to take Ketotifen along with anticoagulants as Ketotifen may reduce the ability of the blood to clot.
Ketotifen should not be used in an epilepsy population. If you have epilepsy, tell your doctor before taking the Ketotifen.
Ketotifen is classified as a preventative antiasthmatic medication. Its main impact is histamine H1-receptor antagonism, which accounts for its sedative effect.
