Zatofen Syrup Uses

Zatofen syrup is a type of medication that is used to prevent and treat allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and chronic urticaria (hives). It is also sometimes used to treat asthma respiratory problems. This Syrup is mostly recommended for children and adults where a low dose of medicine is needed. The following are some common uses and indications of Zatofen Syrup:

1. Allergic Rhinitis: Zatofen syrup may be prescribed to treat allergic rhinitis, which is characterized by symptoms such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itching, and postnasal drip due to exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
2. Allergic Conjunctivitis: Zatofen syrup may be used to manage allergic conjunctivitis, an allergic reaction that affects the conjunctiva (the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids). Symptoms can include redness, itching, watering, and swelling of the eyes.
3. Chronic Urticaria (Hives): Zatofen syrup might be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of chronic urticaria, a condition characterized by raised, itchy, and often red welts on the skin. It can help reduce the frequency and severity of hives.
4. Asthma: In some cases, Zatofen syrup may be used as an adjunctive treatment for mild asthma symptoms, helping to stabilize mast cells and reduce bronchoconstriction triggered by allergens.
5. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Zatofen syrup could potentially be considered to manage itching and inflammation associated with atopic dermatitis, although other treatments are more commonly used.
6. Prevention of Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction (EIB): Zatofen has been studied as a preventive measure for exercise-induced bronchoconstriction in some cases.

Off-label Uses of Zatofen Syrup

1. Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): Zatofen’s potential anti-inflammatory effects might be explored in managing inflammation of the esophagus associated with EoE.
2. Pruritus (Severe Itching) in Skin Disorders: Zatofen’s antihistamine properties might be utilized to help manage severe itching (pruritus) associated with certain skin disorders, although other treatments are more commonly used.
3. Chronic Cough: Zatofen’s potential role in stabilizing mast cells might be considered in managing chronic cough related to allergies or other triggers.
4. Food Allergies: Zatofen’s ability to stabilize mast cells has led to speculation about its potential to reduce allergic reactions to certain foods. It has been explored in some research as a possible adjunct treatment for individuals with food allergies, but more rigorous studies are needed to establish its effectiveness and safety in this context.

Zatofen Syrup is one of the leading brands of Ketotifen in oral liquid form, manufactured and marketed by Novartis Pharma (Pakistan) Ltd.

The following are some alternative brands of Zatofen Syrup and their manufacturer.

Aria : Highnoon Laboratories Ltd, Pakistan.

Mactifen : Macter International (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Proasma : Platinum Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Asthotifen : Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Asfen : Remington Pharmaceutical Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Asthanil : Siza International (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Kotin : Schazoo Zaka, Pakistan.

Zag : Libra Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Asmarax : Mediceena Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Bronclear : Neo Medix Pakistan.

Presently, Zatofen is available in Syrup and Tablet forms.

Zatofen Syrup : 1mg/5ml strength.

Zatofen Tablet : 1mg strength.

Zatofen is generally well-tolerated, but there are certain situations in which its use may be contraindicated or should be approached with caution.

Contraindications:

Hypersensitivity or Allergy: Zatofen should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to Zatofen or any of its components. Allergic reactions can range from mild skin rashes to more severe reactions like anaphylaxis.

Precautions:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Zatofen use during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been well established. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before using Zatofen if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Central Nervous System (CNS) Depression: Zatofen may cause drowsiness and impair alertness. Individuals who are taking other medications that can cause CNS depression (such as sedatives, alcohol, or other antihistamines) should use Zatofen with caution.

Children and Elderly: The safety and efficacy of Zatofen in children younger than 3 years of age have not been established. Use in the elderly should be approached with caution due to the potential for increased sensitivity to side effects.

Renal or Hepatic Impairment: Zatofen is metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys. Individuals with significant renal or hepatic impairment should use Zatofen with caution, and dose adjustments may be necessary.

Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Zatofen should be used with caution in individuals with angle-closure glaucoma, as it may exacerbate the condition.

Urinary Retention: Zatofen may cause urinary retention, especially in individuals with a history of urinary problems or enlarged prostate.

Alcohol Use: Alcohol consumption while taking Zatofen may increase the risk of CNS depression and drowsiness.

Other Medical Conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, should use Zatofen with caution, as it may lower the seizure threshold.

Zatofen Syrup Dose for Allergic Rhinitis and Allergic Conjunctivitis:

Adults and Children (over 3 years old):

• Starting dose is around 1 mg (5 mL) of Zatofen syrup twice daily.
• The dose can be adjusted based on the individual’s response and tolerance, but the maximum daily dose is usually 4 mg (20 mL).

Zatofen Syrup Dose for Asthma:

• The dosing for Zatofen Syrup as an adjunct therapy for asthma can vary.
• It’s often started at a lower dose and gradually increased to minimize side effects.
• Typical dosages can range from 1 to 4 mg daily, split into two doses.

Zatofen mode of action involves several mechanisms that help mitigate the body’s allergic response. Here’s an overview of how Zatofen works:

Histamine Receptor Blockade:

Zatofen acts as an antagonist at histamine H1 receptors. Histamine is a chemical released by mast cells during an allergic reaction and contributes to symptoms such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose. By blocking histamine receptors, Zatofen helps reduce the effects of histamine on target tissues, which alleviates allergy symptoms.

Stabilization of Mast Cells:

Zatofen has mast cell stabilizing properties, which means it helps prevent mast cells from releasing histamine and other inflammatory mediators when triggered by allergens. This reduces the overall allergic response and can prevent the onset of symptoms.

Inhibition of Leukotrienes:

Zatofen can inhibit the production and release of leukotrienes, which are potent inflammatory mediators involved in allergic and asthmatic reactions. By reducing leukotriene release, Zatofen helps decrease inflammation and related symptoms.

Reduction of Eosinophil Activation:

Eosinophils are white blood cells that play a role in allergic responses and inflammation. Zatofen may inhibit eosinophil activation and migration to inflamed tissues, further reducing allergic inflammation.

Suppression of Chemotactic Factors:

Zatofen can suppress the release of chemotactic factors, which are substances that attract immune cells to sites of inflammation. By reducing the recruitment of immune cells, Zatofen helps limit the extent of the allergic response.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

Zatofen’s overall effect on reducing the release of inflammatory mediators contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling.