| Ketotifen
Drug Info Generic Name:
ketotifen ophthalmic (kee toe TYE fen off THAL mik)
Brand Names: Alaway, Zaditor
What is Zaditor (ketotifen ophthalmic)?
Ketotifen is an antihistamine that inhibits the body's
release of a chemical called histamine. Histamine can produce
allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and watery
eyes.
Ketotifen ophthalmic is used to treat itching of the eyes
caused by allergy to dust, pollen, animals, or other allergens.
Ketotifen
ophthalmic may also be used for other purposes not listed
in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about
Zaditor (ketotifen ophthalmic)?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to ketotifen,
or if you have an untreated eye infection. Ketotifen ophthalmic
should not be used to treat eye irritation caused by wearing
contact lenses.
Use this medication exactly as directed on the label,
or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use
the medication in larger amounts, or use it for longer
than recommended.
If you wear contact lenses, remove them before applying
ketotifen ophthalmic. This medication may contain a preservative
(benzalkonium chloride) that may cause discoloration of
contact lenses. Wait at least 10 minutes after using in
the eye drops before putting contact lenses into your eyes.
Do not allow the medicine dropper tip to touch any surface,
including the eyes or hands. If the dropper becomes contaminated
it could cause an infection in your eye, which can lead
to vision loss or serious damage to the eye.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before
using Zaditor (ketotifen ophthalmic)?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to ketotifen,
or if you have an untreated eye infection. Ketotifen ophthalmic
should not be used to treat eye irritation caused by wearing
contact lenses. FDA pregnancy category C. This medication
may be harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you
are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether ketotifen passes into breast milk
or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication
without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a
baby. Do not use this medication in a child younger than
3 years old without the advice of a doctor.
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