Research Article
Ketotifen in adult asthma.
Br Med J 1980; 280 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.280.6211.360 (Published 09 February 1980) Cite this as: Br Med J 1980;280:360
- A J Dyson,
- A D Mackay
Abstract
The efficacy and adverse effects of ketotifen 1 mg twice daily and 2 mg twice daily were compared with placebo in 50 patients with atopic asthma in a multicentre, double-blind study. Ketotifen in the higher dosage caused a slight reduction in salbutamol usage and a modest improvement in breathing in patients not already receiving inhaled corticosteroids. The drug was ineffective in patients receiving inhaled corticosteroids. Drowsiness was a troublesome effect causing withdrawal from treatment or reduction of dosage in seven patients while receiving ketotifen compared with only three while receiving placebo.