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Compare Zaditor vs. Azelastine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Zaditor (ketotifen) and azelastine (Astelin) are both antihistamines used to treat allergy symptoms, but they have some key differences. Zaditor (ketotifen) is an over-the-counter eye drop that relieves itchy eyes caused by allergies. You typically use it twice a day, and it's safe for children 3 years and older. Common side effects include headache, runny nose, and dry eyes. On the other hand, azelastine is a nasal spray available by prescription (0.1% and 0.15% strength) and over-the-counter (0.15% strength) and is generally safe for children 6 years and older. It’s an antihistamine that treats nasal symptoms like runny or stuffy nose, but is used in the nostrils, usually twice a day. Azelastine can cause a bitter taste in the mouth, headache, and sleepiness. Both medications are available as lower-cost generic formulations.

  • Zaditor (ketotifen)
    Azelastine nasal spray
  • Zaditor (ketotifen)
    Azelastine nasal spray

  • Summary of Zaditor vs. Azelastine

    Summary for Antihistamine

    Zaditor (ketotifen) is an antihistamine eye drop that's available over the counter for allergy-related itchy eyes. It works by blocking histamine and stopping your body from releasing chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. Adults and children can use Zaditor (ketotifen). The typical dosage is one drop into the affected eye(s) twice daily. Side effects can include headache, blurry vision, and dry eyes.

    Summary for Antihistamine
    Prescription only

    Azelastine nasal spray is an antihistamine that treats allergies and nasal symptoms, such as runny or stuffy nose. The 0.1% and 0.15% strengths of the azelastine nasal spray are available with a prescription for adults and children. It's sprayed into the nostrils typically twice a day. Prescription azelastine nasal spray is a lower-cost generic. Possible side effects include a bitter taste in the mouth and nasal discomfort. <br/> Note: Azelastine 0.15% nasal spray is also available over the counter under the brand name Astepro Allergy.

  • Indications of Zaditor vs. Azelastine

    Indications for
    •Allergy-related itchy eyes
    Indications for
    •Seasonal allergy symptoms related to the nose
    •Year-round allergy symptoms related to the nose - azelastine 0.15% spray only
    •Runny or stuffy nose that isn't caused by allergies - azelastine 0.1% spray only

  • Pros and Cons of Zaditor vs. Azelastine

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Works within 15 minutes to relieve itchy eyes
    •Available over the counter
    •Can use in children age 3 or older
    •Only need to use 1 drop twice a day
    Cons
    •Won't treat an eye infection
    •Shouldn't be used for irritation caused by contact lenses
    •Can only be used for a short period of time
    •Need to take your contact lens out before placing the eye drop
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    Pros
    •Works well to relieve nasal symptoms during allergy season
    •Might work faster than steroid nasal sprays and some oral antihistamines
    •Sprayed directly into the nose
    •Available in two different strengths (0.1% and 0.15%)
    Cons
    •Doesn't have a counter to keep track of the number of sprays you have left in the bottle
    •Can leave a bitter taste in your mouth (but it goes away)
    •Can cause sleepiness in some people
    •Might need to use twice a day

  • Common Side Effects of Zaditor vs. Azelastine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Runny nose
    •Rash
    •Dry eye
    Common Side Effects for

    Azelastine 0.1% nasal spray:

    •Bitter taste in the mouth (20%)
    •Headache (15%)
    •Sleepiness (12%)
    •Nasal burning (4%)

    Azelastine 0.15% nasal spray:

    •Bitter taste in the mouth (4%)
    •Nasal discomfort (4%)

  • Warnings of Zaditor vs. Azelastine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Not to be used with contact lenses
    •Allergy to ingredients
    •Risk for eye infection
    Common Side Effects for
    •Possible sleepiness and difficulty concentrating

  • Prices with our coupons for Zaditor vs. Azelastine

    Learn more about Zaditor
    Learn more about Azelastine nasal spray

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