Drugs and Supplements

Prescription Drugs

Zaditor, Ketotifen fumarate, side effects, drug interactions, overdose, dosage

Zaditor

Generic name: Ketotifen fumarate


What is Zaditor?

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Zaditor is a topical medicine that is applied to the eyes to relieve itching of the eyes due to allergies. Zaditor prevents the release of inflammation-causing substances in your eye, a process that often occurs in response to allergens.


What is the most important information I should know about Zaditor?

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To prevent eye infections and contamination of your Zaditor bottle, avoid letting the tip of the bottle touch any part of your eye.

Zaditor should not be used to treat redness or irritation to your eyes due to wearing contact lenses. Zaditor contains a preservative that may be absorbed by soft contact lenses. If you wear soft contact lenses, wait at least 10 minutes after instilling Zaditor before reinserting your contact lenses.

Zaditor should only be applied topically to the eyes and should not be ingested or injected.


Who should not take Zaditor?

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You should not use Zaditor if you are allergic or sensitive to it or any of its ingredients.


What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Zaditor?

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Mention all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Zaditor. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have red or irritated eyes due to causes other than allergies, such as an infection or wearing contact lenses.


What is the usual dosage?

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The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dose is 1 drop instilled into the affected eye(s) twice a day (every 8-12 hours).

Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under the age of 3 have not been established.


How should I take Zaditor?

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Remove any contact lenses or other eye inserts before instilling Zaditor drops.


What should I avoid while taking Zaditor?

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Avoiding touching the tip of the Zaditor applicator to any part of your eye, so you will not contaminate the solution.


What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Zaditor?

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If Zaditor is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Zaditor with other eye drops, including prescription or over-the-counter preparations.


What are the possible side effects of Zaditor?

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Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: eye infection, runny nose, headache


Can I receive Zaditor if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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The effects of Zaditor during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.


What should I do if I miss a dose of Zaditor?

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If you forget to use Zaditor, instill the dose as soon as your remember. If it is closer to your next scheduled dose, skip the dose you missed and use Zaditor according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double your doses.


How should I store Zaditor?

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Store at room temperature with the top tightly closed.