Ketifen Syrup

✔️ Uses of Ketifen Syrup

To prevent:

• Bronchial asthma
• Rhinitis

✔️ How does Ketifen Syrup work?

Ketifen Syrup works by blocking histamine (a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms) and stops the release of mediators from cells involved in hypersensitivity reactions.

✔️ Side Effects of Ketifen Syrup

• Irritation or Irritability
• Drowsiness
• Hyperactivity reactions
• Agitation
• Irritability
• Inability to sleep (insomnia)
• Burning sensation when passing urine and need to urinate frequently (cystitis)
• Dry mouth
• Weight increased
• Sleep disturbances or Inability to sleep (insomnia)
• Agitation or Nervousness

✔️ Quick Suggestions:

• Stay hydrated: It is important to drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, or warm broth, to help soothe a cough, relieve a runny nose, and prevent dehydration.
• Manage stress: Stress can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to illnesses. Engage in activities that help reduce stress, such as regular exercise, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or practicing progressive muscle relaxation techniques.
• Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Adequate rest helps support a strong immune system and aids in the body's recovery from illness.
• Avoid allergens: If you are aware of specific allergens that trigger your symptoms, such as pollen or dust, take steps to minimize exposure. Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers, and dust and vacuum regularly.
• Identify and manage food allergies: Pay attention to any specific food items that may cause allergic reactions in your case. If you suspect food allergies, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.
• Practice good personal hygiene: Regularly washing hands with soap and water, especially before meals and after being in public places, helps reduce the spread of germs. Additionally, keeping your surroundings clean and practicing good hygiene habits can minimize the risk of infections.

✔️ Indication

Bronchial asthma is a disorder in which the airways constrict and swell, causing excessive mucus production. This can make breathing difficult, as well as cause coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It is used in the prophylactic treatment of bronchial asthma and allergic conditions such as rhinitis (inflammation of the inside of the nose caused by an allergen like pollen, or dust).

✔️ Pharmacology

Ketotifen is known for its anti-allergic properties and is commonly used in the preventive treatment of asthma, similar to sodium cromoglycate. It exhibits antihistamine characteristics as well. Ketotifen is particularly effective in preventing asthma attacks and has strong anti-anaphylactic effects.

One of the unique features of Ketotifen is its long-lasting inhibitory effect on histamine reactions, which sets it apart from its anti-anaphylactic effects. Research has shown that orally administered Ketotifen is as effective as selective mast cell stabilizers delivered through inhalation in individuals with asthma, with antihistamines proving to be less successful in similar tests.

Long-term clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of Ketotifen. These studies have demonstrated a reduction in the number, severity, and duration of asthma attacks, and in some cases, patients experienced complete freedom from attacks. Gradual reduction of corticosteroids and/or bronchodilators was also possible in some cases.

It is important to note that Ketotifen does not provide immediate relief for ongoing asthma episodes. Its prophylactic activity may take several weeks to fully establish. Therefore, it is not intended for use during an acute asthma attack.

It is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation, prescription, and guidance on the use of Ketotifen for asthma management.

✔️ Dosage & Administration of Ketifen Syrup

• For adults: The recommended dosage of Ketotifen is 1 mg (equivalent to 1 tablet or 1 teaspoonful) twice daily, to be taken with food. In severe cases or as directed by a healthcare professional, the dose may be doubled to 2 mg twice daily.
• For adults who may experience drowsiness as a side effect: It may be preferable to start with a lower dose for the first few days of treatment. In such cases, a dosage of 0.5 mg to 1 mg at night may be used.
• For children aged 6 months to 3 years: The dosage of Ketotifen is determined based on body weight. The recommended dosage is 0.05 mg (equivalent to 0.25 ml of syrup) per kilogram of body weight, given twice daily. The exact dosage should be determined by a healthcare professional.
• For the elderly: The same dosage as recommended for adults can be used unless otherwise advised by a physician. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare professional.

Take Ketifen Syrup in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Check the label for directions before use. Measure it with a measuring cup and take it by mouth. Shake well before use. Ketifen Syrup may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time. It is crucial to adhere to the recommended dosage instructions provided by the healthcare professional. They may adjust the dosage based on the individual's response to the medication and the severity of the condition.

✔️ Interaction

• Oral medicines for diabetes: This includes medications such as biguanides (e.g., metformin) that are used to treat diabetes. Informing your doctor about these medications is important as they may interact with Ketifen Syrup.
• Medications for asthma: This category includes medications like budesonide and beclomethasone that are used to manage asthma symptoms. Your doctor should be aware of these medications to ensure appropriate management and potential adjustment of the treatment plan.
• Medications for sleeplessness, anxiety, and depression: Examples include diazepam and lorazepam, which belong to the class of medications known as benzodiazepines. Informing your doctor about these medications is important to prevent any potential interactions or adverse effects.
• Antihistamines for allergic reactions: This includes medications like brompheniramine and azelastine, which are commonly used to manage allergic reactions. It is essential to inform your doctor about these medications to avoid any possible interactions or unwanted effects.
• Anticoagulants: Warfarin is an example of an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clotting. Informing your doctor about the use of warfarin is important as it may interact with Ketifen Syrup.

✔️ Contraindications

Although there is limited evidence of a teratogenic (causing birth defects) impact of Ketotifen, it is generally not recommended to use Ketotifen during pregnancy or when breastfeeding is not possible. Additionally, there have been reports of a reversible decrease in platelet count in a small number of patients taking Ketotifen along with oral antidiabetic medication. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid the combination of Ketotifen with oral antidiabetic medication.

✔️ Pregnancy & Lactation

Ketotifen is not indicated for use during pregnancy or lactation, even though there is a lack of evidence suggesting teratogenic effects. The safety of Ketotifen during these periods has not been sufficiently studied, and it is generally recommended to avoid its use as a precautionary measure. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate advice and alternative treatment options if needed, specifically during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

✔️ Precautions & Warnings

• Ketifen Syrup should not be taken if you are allergic to Ketotifen or any of its ingredients. It is important to inform your doctor about any allergies you may have.
• Ketifen Syrup may interact with epilepsy and liver impairment. Caution should be exercised when using Ketifen Syrup in individuals with these conditions. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional is recommended.
• Alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking Ketifen Syrup to minimize the potential for adverse effects such as dizziness.
• Before taking Ketifen Syrup, it is important to inform your doctor about your medical history, including any underlying conditions and medications you are currently taking. This will help rule out any potential adverse effects or drug interactions.
• Although there is no evidence of teratogenic consequences associated with Ketifen Syrup, its use during pregnancy is not recommended. It is advisable to discuss with your healthcare professional the potential risks and benefits of using Ketifen Syrup during pregnancy.
• Ketifen Syrup is excreted into human milk. Therefore, mothers receiving the medication should not breastfeed to avoid exposing the infant to the drug.

✔️ Storage Conditions

Protect from light and store in a cool, dry location. Keep out of children's reach.