ketotifen liquid-oral

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: Ketotifen is an antihistamine used, usually in children, to help prevent or reduce the symptoms of asthma (e.g., shortness of breath). Taken every day, it may also help reduce the severity and length of these symptoms. It works by blocking a chemical (histamine) that may lead to swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs. Ketotifen should be taken every day in addition to other anti- asthma medications (e.g., beta-agonists, theophylline). This medication should not be used for acute asthma attacks. Use quick-relief medicines/inhalers for such attacks.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually twice daily with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy and may be gradually increased during the first week of treatment. Doing so may decrease the severity of certain side effects (e.g., drowsiness). It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. This drug is only effective at reducing or preventing asthma symptoms if it is taken consistently every day. It may take up to 10 weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. You dose may need to be gradually decreased.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, rash, dizziness, or weight gain may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: trouble sleeping, nervousness, trouble breathing (either unrelated or worsening of asthma symptoms), nose bleeds. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: pain during urination, bladder pain, dark/bloody or pink-colored urine, stomach pain, yellowing eyes or skin, seizures. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: seizures, any allergies (especially benzoate preservatives; in the liquid only). This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: other asthma medications (e.g., albuterol, prednisone/steroids, theophylline), oral diabetes medication (e.g., glipizide, glyburide). Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep (e.g., sedatives, tranquilizers), anti-anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine, morphine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine or tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine, topiramate), muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include: confusion, seizures, unusually fast heartbeat, severe drowsiness.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

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