From the Guidelines
Ketotifen and Pataday are not the same, as they are different chemical compounds with the same dual-action mechanism of an antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer. According to the study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 1, both ketotifen (Alaway, Zaditor) and olopatadine (Pataday, Patanol) are classified as dual-action agents, which possess both antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer activities.
Key Differences
- Ketotifen is available as eye drops (brand names like Zaditor or Alaway)
- Pataday (olopatadine) is also an antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer but is available in different strengths (0.1%, 0.2%, or 0.7%) depending on whether it's for once-daily or twice-daily dosing
Mechanism of Action
- Both medications work by blocking histamine receptors and preventing mast cells from releasing inflammatory chemicals that cause allergy symptoms, as stated in the study 1
Clinical Use
- They cannot be substituted for each other without consulting a healthcare provider, as dosing schedules and individual responses may differ
- The study 1 highlights the importance of choosing the right medication for ocular allergy symptoms, considering factors such as onset of action, duration of treatment, and potential side effects.
From the FDA Drug Label
Active ingredient Ketotifen (0.025%) (equivalent to ketotifen fumarate 0.035%) Principal Display Panel - Bottle Carton NDC 76385-106-17 Now OTC Ketotifen Fumarate Opthalmic Solution 0.035% Active ingredient Olopatadine (0.1%) (equivalent to olopatadine hydrochloride 0.111%)
Ketotifen is not the same as Pataday.
- Ketotifen is the active ingredient in some eye drops, with a concentration of 0.025% or 0.035% (as ketotifen fumarate) 2 2.
- Pataday contains Olopatadine as its active ingredient, with a concentration of 0.1% (equivalent to olopatadine hydrochloride 0.111%) 3.
From the Research
Comparison of Ketotifen and Olopatadine (Pataday)
- Ketotifen and olopatadine (Pataday) are both used to treat allergic conjunctivitis, but they are not the same medication 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
- Studies have compared the efficacy of ketotifen and olopatadine in treating allergic conjunctivitis, with some showing that olopatadine may be more effective in relieving symptoms such as itching, tearing, and burning 4, 6, 7.
- However, other studies have found that ketotifen may be more effective in reducing the expression of cell adhesion molecules and inflammatory markers in conjunctival surface cells 5, and in improving global efficacy ratings and reducing severity scores for hyperemia and itching 8.
- In terms of patient preference, one study found that a significantly greater percentage of patients preferred olopatadine over ketotifen due to its efficacy and comfort 6.
- Both ketotifen and olopatadine have been shown to be well-tolerated and safe, with minimal adverse events reported 5, 6, 8.
Key Differences
- Olopatadine (Pataday) is available in a 0.1% ophthalmic solution, while ketotifen is available in a 0.025% ophthalmic solution 5, 6, 7, 8.
- The dosage and administration of the two medications may also differ, with olopatadine typically administered twice daily and ketotifen administered twice daily as well 5, 8.