Ketotifen is an antihistamine and mast-cell stabilizer developed in the 1970s by Sandoz Pharmaceuticals and introduced globally in the early 1980s for preventing asthma and managing allergic conditions. It works by blocking H1 receptors and inhibiting the release of inflammatory mediators, giving it a dual mechanism valuable in chronic allergy control. Over time, ketotifen became widely recognized for its effectiveness in conditions such as allergic rhinitis and chronic asthma prophylaxis. It later gained extensive use in ophthalmic formulations for allergic conjunctivitis. Its reliable safety profile and preventive action made it suitable for long-term management of persistent allergies. Ketotifen’s ability to modulate mast-cell activity helped distinguish it from standard antihistamines. As its clinical utility expanded, it remained an important therapy in many regions. Today, ketotifen continues to be used as a dependable option for both systemic and ocular allergic disorders.
