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Compare Zaditor vs. Crolom

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

Key takeaways

Zaditor (ketotifen) and cromolyn (Crolom) are both eye drops used to treat allergy-related eye symptoms, but they have some key differences. Zaditor is an over-the-counter antihistamine and mast cell stabilizer that works quickly, often within 15 minutes, to relieve itchy eyes. It's suitable for adults and children aged 3 and older and is typically used twice a day. In contrast, cromolyn is a prescription-only mast cell stabilizer that helps with chronic eye allergies, including itching, tearing, and redness. Cromolyn takes longer to start working, often requiring several days to weeks for full effect. It can be used in adults and children as young as 4 years old, and typically used 4 to 6 times a day. While Zaditor shouldn’t be used for more than 3 days in a row, while cromolyn is safe for long-term use. Neither medication should be used with contact lenses due to preservatives that can damage the lenses. Cromolyn is considered a good option for pregnant women, but there isn’t enough information to know whether Zaditor is safe during pregnancy.

  • Zaditor (ketotifen)
    Cromolyn eye drop
  • Zaditor (ketotifen)
    Cromolyn eye drop

  • Summary of Zaditor vs. Crolom

    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 Mast cell stabilizer
    Prescription only

    Cromolyn eye drop is an ophthalmic drop that helps relieve long-term allergy symptoms related to the eye, such as eye itchiness, watery eyes, and eye redness. It belongs to a drug class called mast cell stabilizers. Cromolyn eye drop is for people over 4 years of age. The usual dosage is 1 or 2 drops in each eye 4 to 6 times a day. It typically takes a few days to a few weeks for symptom relief. The most common side effects are burning or stinging when you apply the eye drops.

  • Indications of Zaditor vs. Crolom

    Indications for
    •Allergy-related itchy eyes
    Indications for
    •Long-term eye allergy symptoms

  • Pros and Cons of Zaditor vs. Crolom

    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 Mast cell stabilizer
    Pros
    •Helps both relieve and prevent long-term eye allergies
    •Most people have little to no side effects
    •Can be used in children as young as 4 years old
    Cons
    •Takes longer to start working than other allergy eye drops
    •Have to use many times a day
    •Requires a prescription

  • Common Side Effects of Zaditor vs. Crolom

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Runny nose
    •Rash
    •Dry eye
    Common Side Effects for
    •Temporary stinging or burning in your eye

  • Warnings of Zaditor vs. Crolom

    Common Side Effects for
    •Not to be used with contact lenses
    •Allergy to ingredients
    •Risk for eye infection
    Common Side Effects for
    •Don't wear contact lenses

  • Prices with our coupons for Zaditor vs. Crolom

    Learn more about Zaditor
    Learn more about Cromolyn eye drop

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