Zyrtec Itchy Eye Drops Side Effects

Generic name: ketotifen ophthalmic

Note: This document contains side effect information about ketotifen ophthalmic. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Zyrtec Itchy Eye Drops.

Some side effects of Zyrtec Itchy Eye Drops may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to ketotifen ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking ketotifen ophthalmic (the active ingredient contained in Zyrtec Itchy Eye Drops) hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using ketotifen ophthalmic and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• redness, drainage, eyelid swelling, or other signs of infection;

• eye pain;

• vision changes; or

• severe itching of the eyes worse than before using the medication.

Less serious side effects of ketotifen ophthalmic may include:

• mild burning, stinging, or eye irritation;

• dryness of the eyes; or

• increased sensitivity to light.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to ketotifen ophthalmic: ophthalmic solution

Ocular

Ocular side effects have included conjunctival congestion (10% to 25%). There was a significant underlying incidence of conjunctival congestion among treated patients and a causal relationship with use of ketotifen has not been established. Other ocular side effects have included burning or stinging, conjunctivitis, ocular discharge, dry eyes, eyelid disorder, eye pain, itching, keratitis, lacrimation disorder, mydriasis, photophobia, and local rash (< 5%).

Ketotifen instillation was associated with mild to moderate burning or stinging in 98% of patients (n=35) in one trial.

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects including headache have been reported in up to 25% of patients. However, there has been no distinction between headache due to underlying disease and use of the drug such that a causal relationship has been questioned. Headaches associated with the use of this product have generally been mild.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included rhinitis (25%). Other respiratory side effects have included pharyngitis (5%).

General

General side effects have included flu syndrome (5%).