Zaditen Eye Drops Alternatives — DR BRENDAN CRONIN OPHTHALMOLOGIST

Zaditen (ketotifen) has long been a trusted name for patients seeking relief from ocular allergies. Unfortunately, Zaditen eye drops are no longer available in Australia, leaving many patients—especially those with conditions such as keratoconus—wondering about alternatives. The good news is that ketotifen, the active ingredient in Zaditen, is still widely available under different brand names.

In this article, we'll explore Zaditen ketotifen alternatives, their benefits, and key safety considerations. We'll also discuss how ketotifen works, possible side effects, and what to do if you miss your usual dose. Whether you're an adult, child, or parent caring for a child, this guide aims to give you clear, professional, and patient-friendly advice.

Understanding Zaditen and Ketotifen

Zaditen belongs to a class of antihistamine medications that block histamine, a chemical that triggers allergic reaction symptoms such as itching, burning, inflammation, and watery eyes. Its active ingredient, ketotifen, has been prescribed in both tablet and eye drop form, making it versatile in managing allergic conditions.

How ketotifen works:

• It stabilises mast cells in the eye, preventing the release of histamine and other inflammatory substances.

• It helps relieve redness, swelling, and discomfort.

• It reduces the urge to rub your eyes, which is especially important in keratoconus patients, where rubbing can worsen corneal thinning.

For most people, ketotifen is highly effective. Children, adults, and the elderly can all benefit when the directions are carefully followed.

Zaditen Eye Drop Alternatives Available in Australia

Although Zaditen itself has been discontinued, several over-the-counter alternatives containing ketotifen remain accessible at pharmacies. These include:

• Apohealth Allergy Eye Drops

• Zoptic

• Tofen Chemists' Own Allergy Drops

• Amcal Allergy Relief

Each contains the same active substance—ketotifen—but may differ in preservatives, dyes, or packaging. Your pharmacist can provide advice on which brand may be best for your situation.

Importantly, these eye drops are still available without a prescription, offering reassurance to patients who rely on them daily.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While most people tolerate ketotifen well, there are times when medical attention is required. You should immediately report any severe or unusual reactions to your doctor.

Situations where you should seek advice:

• If you notice severe itching, burning, or swelling of the eyelids or skin

• If unwanted side effects such as dizziness, blurred sight, or nervous feelings interfere with daily activities

• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or elderly and unsure about risks

• If you have underlying conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, or liver disease

• If symptoms do not improve with treatment or seem to worsen despite following the usual dose

Always discuss your medical history, current medicines, and any concerns with your healthcare provider before starting a new medicine.

Usual Dose, Directions, and Missed Doses

Taking the right dose at the correct frequency is key to achieving effective relief.

• The usual dose of ketotifen eye drops is one drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily—morning and evening.

• If you forget a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one—do not double up.

• If you accidentally use too much, the risk of overdose is minimal, but you should still seek advice if you feel unwell.

Following these directions ensures the medicine provides maximum relief while minimising unwanted effects.

Possible Side Effects and How Your Body Adjusts

Like all medicines, ketotifen may cause unwanted side effects, although most people do not experience them.

Commonly reported symptoms include:

• Temporary burning or stinging in the eyes

• Mild irritation, redness, or a feeling that something is in the eye

• Slight blurring of sight immediately after application

Less common but more serious effects can occur, such as:

• Severe allergic reaction

• Difficulty breathing in patients with asthma

• Changes in urine colour, dizziness, or headaches

Often, these effects lessen as your body adjusts to the medicine. If any reaction worries you, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further advice. Patients who wear soft contact lenses should take extra care, as preservatives may irritate the eye’s surface.

Allergic Reaction and Use with Other Medicines

If your doctor tells you to use ketotifen alongside other medicines, follow their guidance carefully to avoid unwanted interactions. Always store your eye drops correctly, as poor storage can reduce their effectiveness and increase the risk of other side effects.

While most reactions are mild, in rare cases they may be dangerous, so seek medical help if severe symptoms occur. These eye drops help treat allergic conditions effectively, including seasonal allergic conjunctivitis. Remember to avoid driving or using machines if your vision becomes blurred after application.

Safety Precautions for Different Groups

Since ketotifen may interact with other medicines, foods, alcohol, and chemical substances, it is important to follow safety measures tailored to your situation.

• Children and adults: Safe if used as directed, but children may be more sensitive to irritation.

• Elderly patients: Extra care should be taken as side effects may more easily affect sight and coordination.

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Use only under medical guidance, as safety data is limited.

• Patients with asthma, epilepsy, or nervous system disorders: Monitor closely, as side effects could occur more easily.

• Women of childbearing age: Always inform your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy.

Precautions also include avoiding contact lenses immediately after instilling drops, as preservatives may interfere with the lens and irritate the eye's surface. For patients using single dose units, discard the remaining contents after use.

Storage, Handling, and Practical Tips

Proper handling ensures your medication remains effective for the full duration of treatment.

• Storage: Always store your drops below 25°C, away from direct heat, and keep the bottle tightly closed.

• Do not freeze, and never use beyond the leaflet's recommended duration once opened.

• Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye, eyelids, skin, or any surface to prevent contamination.

• Keep out of reach of children.

• Discard any remaining liquid after the advised frequency of weeks—your pharmacist can provide a full list of expiry guidelines.

If you travel, ensure your medicine is protected from temperature changes and direct sunlight. If the bottle is broken or damaged, do not use it.

Conclusion: Reassurance for Patients

The discontinuation of Zaditen drops in Australia may feel worrying, but alternatives containing ketotifen remain widely available. Whether you choose Apohealth Allergy Eye Drops, Zoptic, Tofen Chemists' Own, or Amcal Allergy Relief, you can continue your short-term treatment with confidence.

By carefully following the directions, being aware of unwanted side effects, and discussing any concerns with your doctor or pharmacist, you can safely relieve symptoms of ocular allergy and protect your eye health. Always wait the recommended time before inserting lenses if needed.

For patients with keratoconus, the key reminder remains—no eye rubbing! With the right treatment plan and professional guidance, you can reduce discomfort, lower risks, and maintain clearer, more comfortable vision.