Ketotifen is a medication to relieve various symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion. This antihistamine class of drugs works by stopping the effects of histamine, which causes complaints of allergies.
In addition to treating the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, ketotifen can also be used as an asthma adjunct therapy to reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of asthma. However, keep in mind that ketotifen is not effective when used to treat acute asthma attacks.
Ketotifen trademark: Astifen, Intifen, Profilas, Scanditen, Tosma, Zaditen
What is Ketotifen
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Antihistamines |
| Benefit | Relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis and adjunctive therapy for asthma |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Ketotifen for pregnant and lactating women | Category C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women. Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Ketotifen can be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor. |
| Drug form | Tablets and syrup |
Warning Before Taking Ketotifen
Ketotifen should only be used according to a doctor's prescription. Before using this drug, you need to pay attention to the following points:
- Do not take ketotifen if you have an allergy to this drug. Always tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had liver disease, kidney disease, enlarged prostate, small bowel obstruction, glaucoma, diabetes, epilepsy, or porphyria.
- Do not drive a vehicle or operate equipment that requires vigilance while taking ketotifen, as this medicine may cause dizziness and drowsiness.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking antidiabetic drugs.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- See your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after taking ketotifen.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Ketotifen
The dosage for each person is different and is generally determined by the age and condition of the patient. The following are general doses of ketotifen based on the patient's condition:
Condition:Allergic rhinitis
- Adults and children 3 years of age: 1 mg, 2 times a day. If needed, the dose may be increased to 2 mg, 2 times daily.
Condition: Asthma
- Adults and children 3 years of age: 1 mg, 2 times a day, taken in the morning and evening.
- Children ages 6 months to 3 years: 0.05 mg/kgBW, 2 times a day, taken in the morning and evening.
Method Consuming Ketotifen Correctly
Follow the doctor's advice and read the information listed on the drug packaging label before taking ketotifen. Do not reduce or increase the dose without consulting your doctor first.
Ketotifen can be taken with or without food. Tell your doctor if you are on a low-sugar diet, because ketotifen syrup contains carbohydrates. Your doctor will determine and adjust treatment for you.
Try not to split or chew the ketotifen tablets. Swallow the tablet whole with the help of a glass of water.
For ketotifen in syrup form, use the measuring spoon provided on the medicine package. Do not use a tablespoon because the dose may be different from what was prescribed. Shake the bottle first before taking the medicine.
Use ketotifen at the same time every day for maximum results. If you forget to take medication, do it immediately if the time lag with the next dose is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Store ketotifen at room temperature and in a closed container so that it is not exposed to direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Ketotifen Interactions with Other Drugs
There are several drug interactions that can occur if ketotifen is used at the same time as other medicines, including:
- Lowering the number of blood platelets (platelets) if taken with antidiabetic drugs
- Increase the side effects of sedatives or sleeping pills
Ketotifen Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that can occur after taking ketotifen are:
- dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Weight gain
- Nervous
- Nosebleed
Consult a doctor if the above side effects do not subside immediately or get worse. You need to see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Throw up
- Cystitis (inflammation of the bladder)
- Weakness or unusual tiredness
- Sore throat
- Hard to sleep
