From the FDA Drug Label
Directions Adults and children 3 years of age and older: Put 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, every 8-12 hours, no more than twice per day. Children under 3 years of age: Consult a doctor. The dose of Alaway (ketotifen) is 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, with a minimum of 8-12 hours between doses, and no more than twice per day for adults and children 3 years of age and older 1.
From the Research
The recommended dose of Alaway (ketotifen fumarate) eye drops is one drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, approximately 8-12 hours apart. Each dose delivers 0.025% ketotifen fumarate, an antihistamine that helps relieve eye allergy symptoms like itching, redness, and watery eyes. Alaway is available over-the-counter and is approved for adults and children 3 years and older. When using the drops, wash your hands before application, avoid touching the dropper tip to any surface including your eye, and wait at least 10 minutes before inserting contact lenses if you wear them. If you're using multiple eye medications, wait at least 5 minutes between applications. Alaway works by blocking histamine receptors in the eye, preventing the chemical reaction that causes allergy symptoms. The medication typically starts working within minutes and can provide relief for up to 12 hours, making twice-daily dosing sufficient for most people experiencing eye allergies 2.
Some key points to consider when using Alaway include:
- The importance of proper hygiene when applying the drops to minimize the risk of infection
- The potential for interactions with other eye medications, which should be used at least 5 minutes apart
- The need to wait at least 10 minutes after applying the drops before inserting contact lenses
- The fact that Alaway is available over-the-counter and is approved for use in adults and children 3 years and older
It's also worth noting that while Alaway is effective in relieving eye allergy symptoms, it may not be as effective as other treatments, such as olopatadine, in some cases 3. However, the combination of Alaway with other medications, such as desloratadine, may provide improved relief from allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms 2.
Overall, Alaway is a safe and effective treatment for eye allergy symptoms, and its twice-daily dosing schedule makes it a convenient option for many people. As with any medication, it's essential to follow the recommended dosage and usage instructions to minimize the risk of side effects and ensure optimal relief from symptoms.