Tofen 1

Indications

Tofen is recommended for:

• Prophylactic Treatment of Bronchial Asthma: Effective in preventing asthma attacks.
• Symptomatic Relief of Allergic Conditions: Includes treatment for rhinitis and conjunctivitis.
• Management of Neurofibroma Complications: Helps alleviate itching, pain, and tenderness.
• Allergy Symptom Relief: Addresses hay fever and urticaria.

Pharmacology

Ketotifen, the active ingredient in Tofen, offers robust anti-allergic and antihistamine effects. Comparable to sodium cromoglycate, Ketotifen is used to prevent asthma symptoms. It has significant anti-anaphylactic properties and helps in preventing asthma attacks. Unlike traditional antihistamines, Ketotifen provides a sustained inhibitory effect on histamine reactions and has been proven effective in long-term clinical trials. It reduces the frequency, severity, and duration of asthma attacks, and can sometimes lead to a complete resolution of symptoms. The full prophylactic benefits may take several weeks to establish, and Ketotifen is not suitable for aborting acute asthma attacks.

Dosage & Administration

• Adults: Take 1 mg twice daily with food. For severe cases, the dose can be increased to 2 mg twice daily.
• Children (3 years and older): Begin with 1 mg twice daily with food. For those sensitive to sedation, start with 0.5 to 1 mg at night as directed by a physician.
• Elderly: Use the same dosage as for adults or as advised by a physician.

Always follow the physician’s instructions for use.

Interactions

Tofen may enhance the effects of sedatives, hypnotics, antihistamines, and alcohol. A decrease in platelet count has been noted when used with oral antidiabetic agents, so concurrent use is generally avoided.

Contraindications

Tofen should be avoided if used with oral antidiabetic agents due to a risk of reduced platelet count. There is no evidence of teratogenic effects, but its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended.

Side Effects

Initial side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, and slight dizziness, which typically resolve after a few days.

Pregnancy & Lactation

The use of Ketotifen during pregnancy and lactation is not recommended despite the absence of teratogenic effects.

Precautions & Warnings

• Continuation of Previous Treatment: Maintain prior asthma treatment, particularly systemic corticosteroids and ACTH, for at least two weeks after starting Tofen to prevent asthma exacerbation.
• Infection Management: If an infection occurs, supplement Tofen treatment with appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
• Initial Reactions: During the first day of Tofen treatment, patients should avoid operating vehicles or machinery until they understand how Tofen affects them.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcoholic beverages as Tofen may enhance the effects of sedatives and other substances.

Overdose Effects

Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, drowsiness, headache, bradycardia, and respiratory depression. Treatment involves gastric lavage or emesis and supportive care.

Therapeutic Class

• Cromoglycate & Related Drugs

Storage Conditions

Store in a cool, dry place, away from light, and keep out of reach of children.