Ketotifen Fumarate General Information
Ketotifen Fumarate 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 Fumarate
If you are using the over-the-counter product, read all directions on the product package before using Ketotifen Fumarate. If your doctor has prescribed Ketotifen Fumarate, 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 Ketotifen Fumarate. 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 Ketotifen Fumarate 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 Ketotifen Fumarate, 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 Ketotifen Fumarate 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.
Ketotifen Fumarate Possible 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 Ketotifen Fumarate, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Ketotifen Fumarate do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately 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 Ketotifen Fumarate 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.
Ketotifen Fumarate Precautions
Before using ketotifen, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Ketotifen Fumarate 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 Ketotifen Fumarate, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: eye problems (e.g., glaucoma).
After you apply Ketotifen Fumarate, 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 Ketotifen Fumarate in children younger than 3 years unless directed by the doctor.
During pregnancy, Ketotifen Fumarate should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known whether Ketotifen Fumarate passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Ketotifen Fumarate Possible Intercations
If Ketotifen Fumarate 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 Ketotifen Fumarate, 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.