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Ketotifen is a drug used to prevent asthma attacks. Unfortunately, the drug is not effective in stopping sudden attacks of breathlessness, so it is not worth taking it temporarily or increasing the dose during an attack of dyspnea. Due to its action, Ketotifen should be introduced and discontinued gradually to eliminate various annoying side effects.
Asthma is a common health problem. Ketotifen can help you fight attacks of breathlessness. However, this drug should be used regularly. How to apply it? What to watch out for when taking Ketotifen?
Ketotifen – indications
Ketotifen is a drug used to prevent asthma attacks. It is also recommended for the treatment of allergic rhinitis and allergic conjunctivitis.
It is worth emphasizing, however, that the drug will not alleviate sudden acute allergic reactions, nor will it stop asthma attacks. The drug has a prophylactic effect.
Ketotifen – composition
The active substance of Ketotifen is ketotifen in the form of ketotifen hydrogen fumarate. One tablet contains 1 mg of the substance.
Ketotifen – contraindications
A contraindication to the use of Ketotifen is hypersensitivity to any component of the drug.
Ketotifen – side effects
The most common side effects of using Ketotifen include: cystitis, insomnia, irritability, nervousness. There are also cases of erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome or severe skin reactions.
Some people taking the drug experience weight gain, fits or dry mouth. Very rare symptoms include hepatitis and an increase in liver enzymes.
Ketotifen – dosage
Ketotifen is administered orally. The drug should be used depending on age:
- adults – 1 tablet twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening, during a meal. If the patient is sensitive to the active ingredient of Ketotifen, the dose should be gradually increased over a week. Use of Ketotifen should be started with half a tablet twice a day;
- children over 3 years of age – 1 tablet twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening with a meal. For young children, it is worth choosing Ketotifen in syrup. Studies show that when using Ketotifen to treat children, there are times when a higher dose per kilogram of body weight is required than for adults. It turned out that children tolerated higher doses of Ketotifen better.
Ketotifen – precautions
Ketotifen is a drug that requires long-term use. In order to prevent bronchial asthma, the drug should be used for a minimum of several weeks. If the drug shows no side effects after a few weeks, treatment with Ketotifen can be continued for a minimum of 2-3 months.
Due to the use of Ketotifen, the dose of bronchodilators may need to be reduced. If it becomes necessary to stop taking Ketotifen, it should be done in stages over a period of 2-4 weeks. Symptoms of asthma may occur after discontinuation of treatment.
Also, remember not to suddenly stop taking other asthma medications, especially corticosteroids. You should always stop taking such medications gradually.
Ketotifen in combination with oral antidiabetic drugs may lead to the appearance of intermittent thrombocytopenia. It is best to avoid combination treatments.
The effect of Ketotifen on pregnancy has not been tested, therefore it should only be used when absolutely necessary. In addition, breastfeeding women should not take Ketotifen at all.
Before use, read the leaflet, which contains indications, contraindications, data on side effects and dosage as well as information on the use of the medicinal product, or consult your doctor or pharmacist, as each drug used improperly is a threat to your life or health.