Ketotifen
- Generic Name
- Ketotifen
- Brand Names
- Alaway, Zaditen, Zaditor
- Drug Type
- Small Molecule
- Chemical Formula
- C19H19NOS
- CAS Number
- 34580-13-7
- Unique Ingredient Identifier
- X49220T18G
- Background
Ketotifen is a benzocycloheptathiophene derivative with potent antihistaminic and mast cell stabilizing properties. It has a similar structure to some other first-generation antihistamines such as cyproheptadine and azatadine.
Ketotifen was first developed in Switzerland in 1970 by Sandoz Pharmaceuticals and was initially marketed for the treatment of anaphylaxis. In the US, it is now used in an over-the-counter ophthalmic formulation for the treatment of itchy eyes associated with allergies, and in Canada a prescription-only oral formulation is available and indicated as an add-on therapy for children with atopic asthma. In addition, oral ketotifen is used in Mexico and across Europe for the treatment of various allergic symptoms and disorders, including urticaria, mastocytosis, and food allergy.
- Indication
Administered orally, ketotifen is indicated as an add-on medication in the chronic treatment of mild atopic asthma in children. It is also available as an over-the-counter ophthalmic solution which is indicated for the temporary prevention of itching of the eye due to allergic conjunctivitis.
- Associated Conditions
- Allergic Rhinitis (AR), Asthma, Allergic, Eye pruritus, Seasonal Allergic Conjunctivitis
- Associated Therapies
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