KETOTIFEN - OPHTHALMIC

KETOTIFEN - OPHTHALMIC

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (KEE-toe-TYE-fen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Zaditor

GENERIC NAME(S): ketotifen fumarate

Uses

USES: This medication is used to prevent and treat itching of the eyes caused by allergies (allergic/seasonal conjunctivitis). Ketotifen is an antihistamine for the eye that treats allergic symptoms by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine). It is also a mast cell stabilizer that prevents allergic reactions by reducing the release of natural substances that cause an allergic reaction.


How to use KETOTIFEN - OPHTHALMIC

HOW TO USE: If you are using the over-the-counter product, read all directions on the product package before using this medication. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it exactly as directed. Apply 1 drop to the affected eye(s), usually twice a day (every 8 to 12 hours) or as directed by the package instructions or your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Ask your doctor if you can wear contact lenses while you are being treated with this medication. If your doctor says you may continue wearing them, remove them before using the eye drops, and wait at least 10 minutes after each dose before putting in your lenses. Do not use this medication to treat irritation from contact lens wear. Consult your doctor about the use of contact lenses when the eyes are red or irritated. Tilt your head back, look upward, and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Hold the dropper directly over your eye and apply 1 drop in the lower eyelid. Look downward and gently close your eyes for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of your eye (near the nose) and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining out. Try not to blink and do not rub your eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after each use, and keep the bottle tightly closed. If you are using another kind of eye medication (drops or ointment), wait at least 5 minutes before applying it. Apply eye drops before eye ointments to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, use it regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Continue to use this medication as prescribed until pollen season is over or you are no longer exposed to the allergic substance, even when allergic symptoms disappear or improve. If your condition persists or worsens, if you develop new symptoms, or if you think you have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention. If you are treating yourself with nonprescription ketotifen, consult your doctor if your itching worsens or lasts more than 72 hours. You may need a different medication.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Burning/stinging/irritation of the eye, headache, stuffy/runny nose, bad taste in your mouth, and increased sensitivity to light may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: dry eyes, eye pain, increased redness/swelling of the eye, vision problems. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using ketotifen, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as the preservative benzalkonium chloride in the multi-dose container), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye problems (e.g., glaucoma). After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Do not use this medication in children younger than 3 years unless directed by the doctor. During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: If this drug has been prescribed, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for KETOTIFEN - OPHTHALMIC

Ketotifen ophthalmic is used to prevent and treat itching of the eyes caused by allergies.

Ketotifen ophthalmic works by blocking the release of certain substances that cause allergic symptoms such as itching and redness in the eyes.

You should wash your hands before and after using ketotifen ophthalmic. Tilt your head back, pull down your lower eyelid, and squeeze one drop into the pocket formed by the eyelid. Close your eyes for a few minutes to allow the medication to be absorbed.

Ketotifen ophthalmic is typically used twice a day, with about 8-12 hours between doses. Follow the instructions provided by your doctor or on the label.

Common side effects of ketotifen ophthalmic include temporary burning or stinging in the eyes, watery eyes, dry eyes, blurred vision, and headache. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.

Yes, ketotifen ophthalmic can be used in children aged 3 years and older. However, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the dosage and administration.

You should remove your contact lenses before using ketotifen ophthalmic. You can reinsert them 10 minutes after using the medication.

Ketotifen ophthalmic may start working within minutes to hours of the first dose. However, it may take a few days to several weeks to experience the full benefits of the medication.

It is recommended to consult with your doctor before using ketotifen ophthalmic if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the medication may pass into breast milk or have potential risks to the fetus.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.