Question
Is Ketotifen Tablet Used for Treating Children’s Asthma?
Answer
Ketotifen tablets can be used to prevent the recurrence of childhood asthma by stabilizing mast cell membranes and reducing the release of immunoglobulin E (IgE), thereby alleviating the symptoms of asthma attacks. However, its side effects may include drowsiness, sedation, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, headache, and weight gain, among others. These side effects are usually not severe, but children should follow their doctor’s instructions when using ketotifen tablets. Additionally, asthma prevention should include identifying allergens and avoiding contact as well as strengthening the immune system and regularly using preventive medications. Common preventive medications include inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists, and cromolyn sodium as anti-inflammatory drugs. During acute attacks, additional use of β2-agonists or theophylline-like drugs may be added. In treatment, inhaled corticosteroids can be used first, and then switched to cromolyn sodium or ketotifen to maintain after the condition stabilizes. For children using ketotifen tablets, it is usually recommended to take 0.5 mg per dose twice a day for those under 3 years old; for those over 3 years old, 1 mg per dose twice a day.