Refresh Eye Itch Relief Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

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# Refresh Eye Itch Relief

Generic name: ketotifen ophthalmic [ kee-toe-TYE-fen-off-THAL-mik ]
Brand names: Alaway, Claritin Eye, Refresh Eye Itch Relief, Zaditor
Drug class: Ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 29, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is Refresh Eye Itch Relief?

Ketotifen is an antihistamine that reduces the effects of natural chemical histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

Refresh Eye Itch Relief (for use in the eyes) is used to treat itching of the eyes caused by allergy to dust, pollen, animals, or other allergens.

Refresh Eye Itch Relief may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

## Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

## Before taking this medicine

You should not use Refresh Eye Itch Relief if you are allergic to it, or if you have:

- an untreated eye infection; or

- eye irritation caused by wearing contact lenses.

Refresh Eye Itch Relief is not approved for use by anyone younger than 3 years old.

## How should I use Refresh Eye Itch Relief?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Do not use Refresh Eye Itch Relief while wearing contact lenses. Refresh Eye Itch Relief may contain a preservative that can discolor soft contact lenses. Wait at least 10 minutes after using this medicine before putting in your contact lenses.

Wash your hands before using the eye drops.

To apply the eye drops:

- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down your lower eyelid to create a small pocket. Hold the dropper above the eye with the tip down. Look up and away from the dropper and squeeze out a drop.

- Close your eyes for 2 or 3 minutes with your head tipped down, without blinking or squinting. Gently press your finger to the inside corner of the eye for about 1 minute, to keep the liquid from draining into your tear duct.

- Use only the number of drops your doctor has prescribed. If you use more than one drop, wait about 5 minutes between drops.

- Wait at least 10 minutes before using any other eye drops your doctor has prescribed.

Do not touch the tip of the eye dropper or place it directly on your eye. A contaminated dropper can infect your eye, which could lead to serious vision problems.

Do not use the eye drops if the liquid has changed colors or has particles in it. Call your pharmacist for new medicine.

Call your doctor if your eye itching does not improve, or if it lasts longer than 72 hours.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Detailed Refresh Eye Itch Relief dosage information

## Related/similar drugs

prednisone, cetirizine ophthalmic, dexamethasone ophthalmic, prednisolone ophthalmic, azelastine ophthalmic, doxylamine

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

## What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of Refresh Eye Itch Relief is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed the medication.

## What should I avoid while using ketotifen ophthalmic?

Do not use other eye medications unless your doctor tells you to.

## Refresh Eye Itch Relief side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Refresh Eye Itch Relief may cause serious side effects. Stop using Refresh Eye Itch Relief and call your doctor at once if you have:

- 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.

Common side effects of Refresh Eye Itch Relief 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. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Refresh Eye Itch Relief side effects (more detail)

## What other drugs will affect Refresh Eye Itch Relief?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on ketotifen used in the eyes. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

## Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

## More about Refresh Eye Itch Relief (ketotifen ophthalmic)

- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: ophthalmic antihistamines and decongestants
- Breastfeeding
- En español

### Patient resources

#### Other brands

Zaditor, Claritin Eye, Alaway, Eye Itch Relief, ... +2 more

### Professional resources

- Prescribing Information

### Related treatment guides

- Conjunctivitis, Allergic

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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