Why is this medication prescribed?

Alaway (ketotifen ophthalmic), is an antihistamine used to relieve eye itching and redness caused by allergic conjunctivitis. It’s often prescribed for people who suffer from allergies that affect their eyes, such as pollen, pet dander, or dust mites. Ketotifen works by blocking histamines, which are chemicals in the body that cause allergic reactions.

How should this medicine be used?

To use Alaway (generic ketotifen ophthalmic) correctly:

• Wash Your Hands: Before using the eye drops, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid contamination.
• Shake the Bottle: If the instructions on your bottle indicate, shake it gently before use.
• Tilt Your Head Back: Look up at the ceiling and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket.
• Apply the Drops: Hold the dropper above your eye, being careful not to let it touch your eye or any other surface. Gently squeeze the bottle to release a drop into the pocket created by your lower eyelid.
• Close Your Eye: Close your eye gently and press lightly on the corner of your eye near the nose for about a minute to help the medication stay in the eye.
• Avoid Rubbing: Try not to rub your eyes after applying the drops.
• Replace the Cap: After use, securely close the bottle cap.
• Frequency: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding how often to use the drops. Typically, they are used twice daily.

If you experience any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Other uses for this medicine

• Relief from Allergic Conjunctivitis: Alaway is primarily used to relieve symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, but it can also be used for other allergy-related eye conditions if recommended by your healthcare provider.
• Preventive Use: In some cases, it may be used preventively if you anticipate exposure to allergens, though this should be done under a doctor’s guidance.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Alaway:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to ketotifen or other components of the eye drops.
• Contact Lenses: If you wear contact lenses, remove them before using the drops. Wait at least 10-15 minutes before reinserting them after application.
• Eye Conditions: Let your doctor know if you have any other eye conditions or infections. Alaway should be used with caution if you have a history of eye issues.
• Avoid Contamination: Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface, including your eye or fingers, to avoid contamination and potential infection.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, to ensure that Alaway is safe for you.
• Use in Children: Alaway is generally not recommended for children under 3 years of age. For children over 3, use under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Side Effects: If you experience persistent irritation, worsening symptoms, or any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the patient information leaflet provided with the medication.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions for using Alaway. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can support overall eye health.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as Possible: Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• Skip the Missed Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Continue with Your Regular Schedule: Resume your normal dosing schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Alaway (ketotifen ophthalmic) can cause some side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Common and less serious side effects include:

• Mild Eye Irritation: Such as burning, stinging, or itching after application.
• Redness: The eyes may appear red or irritated.
• Dry Eyes: Temporary dryness or discomfort.

Less common but more serious side effects include:

• Severe Eye Irritation: Persistent pain, swelling, or redness.
• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness.
• Vision Changes: Blurred vision or other visual disturbances.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or if you have signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing), contact your healthcare provider immediately.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Alaway:

• Storage:
  • Keep it at Room Temperature: Store Alaway at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
  • Keep the Bottle Closed: Ensure the bottle is tightly closed when not in use.
  • Avoid Freezing: Do not freeze the eye drops.
• Disposal:
  • Check Local Guidelines: Dispose of Alaway according to your local guidelines for medication disposal.
  • Do Not Flush: Do not flush the drops down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.
  • Return to Pharmacy: Many pharmacies offer take-back programs for unused or expired medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Poison Control or Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, contact poison control or seek immediate medical attention.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Although rare, symptoms of an overdose might include severe eye irritation or systemic effects.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Prescribed Dosage: Use Alaway exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not use more frequently or in larger amounts than directed.
• Consult Your Doctor: Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the medication.
• Report Side Effects: Report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider or to the FDA’s MedWatch program.

If you have any other questions or need more specific information about your treatment, your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide guidance.