Antihistamine / Mast cell stabilizer (Antiallergy)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Ketotifen is an antiallergy medicine that works by blocking histamine, the chemical your body releases during allergic reactions, and also helps stabilize certain cells in your body to prevent them from releasing more allergy-causing substances.
Blocks H1 histamine receptors and stabilizes mast cells by inhibiting degranulation, thereby reducing histamine release and preventing allergic inflammatory responses in tissues including the eye, respiratory tract, and skin.
Eye allergies (itchy, red, watery eyes), allergic conjunctivitis (apollo-like eye irritation from allergies), prevention of asthma attacks, hay fever, skin allergies and itching
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two doses at once to make up for it.
This medicine can make you very sleepy, so avoid driving okada, keke, or car until you know how it affects you. Buy only from licensed pharmacies and avoid roadside sellers as fake allergy medicines are common. Do not stop taking it suddenly if you have been using it for asthma prevention, talk to your doctor about how to gradually reduce the dose.
Avoid alcohol while taking ketotifen as it increases drowsiness and dizziness significantly. Sedatives, sleeping pills, and antihistamines like chlorpheniramine (Piriton) can increase the drowsy effect when combined. If you take diabetes medicine (oral tablets), let your doctor know as ketotifen may temporarily affect your blood platelet count.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Ketotifen with your other drugs?
Ketotifen should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically says it is necessary. Consult your doctor first.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near windows. Keep eye drops tightly closed after use and discard 28 days after opening. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.