Ketotifen
ZADITOR
Pronunciation: kee-toe-TYE-fen
What it isH1 antagonist with mast-cell stabilization; allergic conjunctivitis.
Why this oneIts inexpensive over-the-counter eye drops combine immediate antihistamine relief with prevention of further mediator release.
What limits itLocal burning or irritation can stop use; oral ketotifen, used outside the US, is sedating.
FDA-approved for
- allergic conjunctivitis (1999)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eye itch due to allergy | adults & children ≥3 yr | 1 drop in affected eye(s) BID (q8-12h) | no more than twice per day |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- If using other ophthalmic products, wait at least 5 minutes between each product
- Children under 3 yr: consult a doctor
Available strengths
- drops 0.025 %
- sol 0.25, 0.35 mg/mL
Pregnancy Undefined
Lactation Undefined
Cost
Ketotifen (ZADITOR)
| Strength | #/mo | generic $/unit | CostPlus | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.025 % | drops | per unit | not offered |
NADAC is a voluntary CMS survey of what retail community pharmacies pay for the drugs they stock. Ketotifen is dispensed outside retail pharmacies, so it rarely appears on surveyed invoices.
Generic entry2012
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskLocal irritation
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryNot assigned — OTC/monograph
Defining liabilityLocal irritation, sensitization or administration-site injury; negligible systemic toxicity at usual use.