Why was this medication prescribed to you?
Ophthalmic ketotifen can be used to treat allergic pinkeye. Ketotifen belongs to a group of drugs called antihistamines. It blocks histamine in the body, which is responsible for allergic symptoms.
What is the best way to use this medication?
Ophthalmic ketotifen is available as a liquid solution to be injected into the eye. Instill it in the eye twice daily, at 8-12 hours intervals. Ketotifen should be applied at the same time every day. Ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any parts you need help understanding. Follow the instructions on your prescription label. Use ketotifen precisely as prescribed by your doctor.
Follow these steps to instill eye drops:
- Hands thoroughly wash with soap and warm water.
- Make sure the tip of the dropper is not cracked or chipped.
- Eye drops and droppers should be kept clean.
- Pull the lower eyelid down with your index fingers while tilting your head forward. This will form a small pocket.
- With the other hand, hold the dropper with the tip down as close as you can to the eye without touching it.
- Hold the fingers of your hand up against your face.
- Squeeze the dropper gently while looking up so that one drop falls into the eyelid pocket. Remove your index finger.
- Try not to blink or squeeze your eyelids. Avoid blinking or squeezing your eyelids.
- Apply gentle pressure with your finger to the tear duct.
- Use a tissue to wipe away any liquid left on your face.
- Wait at least five minutes before using another drop.
- Replace the cap and tighten it on the bottle. The dropper tip should not be wiped or rinsed.
- Remove any medication from your hands by washing them.
This medicine can be used in other ways.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you want to know more.
What precautions should I take?
Before using ketotifen eye drops,
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about an allergy to ketotifen or other medications.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist which prescription and non-prescription medications you take, including vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products.
- Tell your doctor if you plan to get pregnant or if breastfeeding is a part of your life. Call your doctor if you fall pregnant while taking ketotifen.
- You should avoid wearing contact lenses if you have red eyes. You should be aware that if your eyes aren’t red, but you wear soft contact lenses, and ketotifen contains benzalkonium, it can absorb the solution. Remove your lenses 10 minutes after instilling the ketotifen solution.
What are the particular dietary guidelines I should follow?
Continue your usual diet unless your doctor advises otherwise.
What should I do if I forget to take a dose of medication?
As soon as you recall the missed dose, administer it. You can skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for your next dose. Don’t give a second dose to compensate for a missed dose.
What are the possible side effects of this drug?
Ketotifen eye drops may cause side effects. If any of these symptoms is severe or does not disappear, tell your doctor.
- Runny nose
- Burning or stinging in the eyes
- eye discharge
- Dry eyes
- Eye pain
- Eyelid problems
- Itching
- Problems with tear production
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Rash
- Flu-like symptoms
- Sore throat
Ketotifen may have other side effects. Call your doctor if you experience any strange side effects while taking this medication.
What do I need to know about the storage and disposal of my medication?
Store this medication at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and tightly closed. Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat and humidity. (Not in the toilet).
It is essential to dispose of unwanted medications in a way that prevents pets, children, and other people from consuming them. You should not flush the medication down your toilet. A medication take-back program is the best way to eliminate your medications. Talk to your pharmacist or your local recycling/garbage department to learn about the take-back program in your area. If you need a local take-back program, visit the FDA website on Safe Disposal.
Many containers, such as those used for eye drops and creams, patches, and inhalers, are not child-resistant and can be opened by young children. Always lock safety caps to protect children. Place the medication up and away from them and out of sight.
What else should I know about the topic?
Attend all your appointments with the doctor.
Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. You can ask your pharmacist about the refilling of your medication.
You should keep a list of all the medicines you take, including those on prescription, nonprescription, and over-the-counter. This includes vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements. This list should be brought with you to every doctor’s appointment or hospital admission. This information is essential to have on hand in an emergency.
