Generic name: zaditor
Availability: Over the counter
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Ketotifen ophthalmic, Zaditor, Claritin eye, Refresh eye itch relief, Alaway
What is Ketotifen (monograph)?
Introduction
Relatively selective histamine H1-receptor antagonist and mast-cell stabilizer.
Uses for Ketotifen
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Self-medication for temporary relief of ocular itching associated with allergic conjunctivitis (i.e., conjunctivitis due to pollen, grass, ragweed, or animal hair or dander).
Ketotifen Dosage and Administration
Administration
Ophthalmic Administration
Apply topically to the eye as an ophthalmic solution.
Dosage
Available as ketotifen fumarate; dosage expressed in terms of ketotifen.
Pediatric Patients
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
One drop of a 0.025% solution in the affected eye(s) twice daily (at an interval of 8–12 hours) for those ≥3 years of age.
Adults
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
One drop of a 0.025% solution in the affected eye(s) twice daily (at an interval of 8–12 hours).
Prescribing Limits
Pediatric Patients
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
Do not administer more frequently than twice daily.
Adults
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
Do not administer more frequently than twice daily.
Related/similar drugs
prednisone, cetirizine ophthalmic, dexamethasone ophthalmic, prednisolone ophthalmic, azelastine ophthalmic, doxylamineWarnings
Contraindications
-
Known hypersensitivity to ketotifen or any ingredient in the formulation.
Warnings/Precautions
Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Category C.
Lactation
Distributed into milk in rats following oral administration. Cautious use is recommended.
Pediatric Use
Safety and efficacy not established in children <3 years of age.
Should not be used in children <3 years of age unless otherwise directed by a clinician.
Common Adverse Effects
Conjunctival injection, headaches, rhinitis. Some events may be related to the underlying ocular disease.
How should I use Ketotifen (monograph)
Administration
Ophthalmic Administration
Apply topically to the eye as an ophthalmic solution.
Dosage
Available as ketotifen fumarate; dosage expressed in terms of ketotifen.
Pediatric Patients
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
One drop of a 0.025% solution in the affected eye(s) twice daily (at an interval of 8–12 hours) for those ≥3 years of age.
Adults
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
One drop of a 0.025% solution in the affected eye(s) twice daily (at an interval of 8–12 hours).
Prescribing Limits
Pediatric Patients
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
Do not administer more frequently than twice daily.
Adults
Allergic Conjunctivitis
Ophthalmic
Do not administer more frequently than twice daily.