The drug "Ketotifen" belongs to the group of cycloheptathiophenone drugs, which have a pronounced antihistamine effect.
The mechanism of action of the drug "Ketotifen"
Doctors' reviews indicate that the drug inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells, blocks histamine receptors, and inhibits phosphodiesterase enzymes. When using the drug, there is an increase in the level of cyclic adenosine monophosphate in mast cells. The medication is involved in the suppression of the effects of platelet-activating factors. The medicine does not stop asthmatic attacks, but only prevents their occurrence, reduces the intensity and duration, in some cases, their complete disappearance. The drug has a positive effect on sputum production.
Composition and pharmacokinetics of the drug "Ketotifen"
Reviews of pharmacists and instructions for use indicate the presence in the medicine of the main active ingredient - ketotifen fumarate.
The drug is almost completely absorbed by the body. The bioavailability of the drug is 50 percent, the drug overcomes the blood-brain barrier. Metabolism occurs in the liver, the drug is excreted in the form of metabolites by the kidneys. The main part of the substance leaves through the kidneys within two days.
Indications for the use of the drug "Ketotifen"
Reviews and recommendations of doctors characterize the medicine as an effective tool for the treatment of atopic bronchial asthma and dermatitis, hay fever, allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis, as well as urticaria.
The medicine is produced in the form of 1 mg tablets and Ketotifen syrup.
Children over the age of three are prescribed 1 mg of the drug in any form 2 times a day. Adults should take the same amount of the drug in the morning and evening. If necessary, double the dose. The medicine is consumed with food inside. The duration of therapy is 3 months. Cancellation of treatment is performed within two weeks.
Contraindications and side effects from taking the drug "Ketotifen"
Patient reviews indicate such negative phenomena as dizziness, drowsiness, slowing down the reaction rate, and a feeling of tiredness. When using the drug, a sedative effect is observed , sleep may be disturbed, anxiety, nervousness in children may occur. In addition, patients feel dry mouth, their appetite increases, vomiting or nausea, constipation may begin. Adverse reactions include thrombocytopenia, allergies, weight gain.
The drug "Ketotifen", syrup and tablets, is not recommended for use during pregnancy and during lactation. It is forbidden to take medication for children under three years of age, as well as for hypersensitivity to the components.
The drug "Ketotifen": special instructions
It is undesirable to abruptly discontinue the drug for patients with bronchospastic syndrome and bronchial asthma. Treatment is stopped smoothly, reducing the dosage for two to four weeks.
In patients who are sensitive to sedation, the drug is prescribed in small doses. The medication is not intended for the treatment of asthma attacks. With the joint appointment of hypoglycemic agents, control should be exercised over the number of platelets in the peripheral blood.
The drug affects the ability to drive vehicles and mechanisms, so you should refrain from these works during treatment.
The drug enhances the effects of sleeping pills, ethanol and antihistamines, and in combination with hypoglycemic drugs, the risk of thrombocytopenia increases.
A similar medical effect is exerted by the preparations Zaditen, Ketof, Stafen, and Positan.