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Ketotifen Fumarate is an effective antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer used for allergic conjunctivitis, asthma prevention, and chronic allergies. Learn about its uses, dosage, benefits, side effects, and safety.
Ketotifen Fumarate is a widely prescribed antiallergic medication used for both the prevention and treatment of allergic conditions. It is a second-generation antihistamine with mast cell stabilizing properties, which makes it more effective than traditional antihistamines in controlling long-term allergic responses. This medicine is available in eye drops, tablets, and syrup forms, making it suitable for different conditions.
🔹 What is Ketotifen Fumarate?
Ketotifen Fumarate belongs to the benzocycloheptathiophene group of drugs. It is a non-competitive H1 histamine receptor blocker that not only prevents histamine from binding but also inhibits the release of other inflammatory mediators such as:
Leukotrienes
Prostaglandins
Platelet activating factors (PAF)
Because of this dual action, Ketotifen provides both immediate relief from allergy symptoms and long-term prevention of recurrent attacks.
🔹 Pharmacological Class
Class: Non-bronchodilator antiasthmatic / Antihistamine
Action: H1 receptor antagonist + Mast cell stabilizer
Onset of Action: Eye drops – within minutes; Oral form – within 1–2 hours
Duration of Action: Up to 12 hours
🔹 Medical Uses of Ketotifen Fumarate
1. Ophthalmic Use (Eye Drops 0.025%)
Treatment of allergic conjunctivitis
Relief from redness, swelling, watery eyes, and itching
Effective in both seasonal and perennial allergic eye conditions
2. Respiratory Use (Oral Tablets/Syrup)
Asthma prophylaxis – prevents recurrent asthma attacks by reducing hypersensitivity of the airways
Not suitable for acute asthma attacks (inhalers/bronchodilators are required in such cases)
3. Other Allergic Conditions
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever): relieves sneezing, nasal congestion, and runny nose
Chronic urticaria (hives): reduces itching and skin rashes
Eczema and atopic dermatitis: helps reduce allergic skin inflammation
Food and seasonal allergies: provides long-term prevention
🔹 Dosage and Administration
✅ Eye Drops (0.025%)
Adults and children (≥3 years): 1 drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily (every 8–12 hours)
Safe for long-term use under medical supervision
✅ Oral Tablets/Syrup
Adults: 1 mg twice daily (morning and evening)
Children (≥3 years): 0.05 mg/kg body weight, usually twice daily
Should be taken with meals to minimize stomach irritation
⚠️ Important: Do not stop Ketotifen abruptly if used for asthma prophylaxis; withdrawal should be gradual under medical guidance.
🔹 Side Effects of Ketotifen Fumarate
Most patients tolerate Ketotifen well, but some may experience mild side effects:
Eye Drops
Temporary burning or stinging sensation
Mild blurred vision after application
Eye irritation or dryness
Oral Form
Drowsiness or sedation (especially at the beginning of treatment)
Dizziness
Dry mouth or throat
Increased appetite → possible weight gain with long-term use
Stomach upset (rare)
🔹 Safety, Precautions, and Contraindications
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Should be used only if prescribed by a doctor.
Children under 3 years: Safety not well established (use only under medical advice).
Driving & Operating Machinery: Oral Ketotifen may cause drowsiness → avoid risky activities.
Drug Interactions:
Avoid alcohol and sedative medicines → may increase drowsiness.
Should be used cautiously with antidiabetic drugs (may alter blood sugar levels in rare cases).
🔹 Brand Names of Ketotifen Fumarate
Ketotifen is marketed worldwide under various brand names, such as:
Zaditen
Ketof
Ketasma
Allergoftal (eye drops)
Oftafen
Zaditor
🔹 Advantages of Ketotifen Over Other Antihistamines
Provides both immediate and preventive relief from allergies
Effective for chronic allergic conditions like asthma and atopic dermatitis
Lower risk of tolerance (patients do not easily develop resistance to the drug)
Available in both ophthalmic and oral forms
🔹 Conclusion
Ketotifen Fumarate is a reliable and effective antiallergic medication with a unique dual mechanism: H1 receptor antagonism and mast cell stabilization. It is widely used for allergic conjunctivitis, asthma prevention, allergic rhinitis, and chronic urticaria.
While it is generally safe, patients should always use it under medical supervision to avoid side effects like drowsiness, weight gain, or eye irritation. For long-term conditions like asthma or chronic allergies, Ketotifen can significantly improve quality of life when used correctly.
