Naphcon A vs. Zaditor

Naphcon A (naphazoline hydrochloride and pheniramine maleate) and Zaditor (ketotifen fumarate) Ophthalmic Solution are used for the temporary relief of redness and itching of the eye(s) due to ragweed pollen, dust, grass, and animal dander and hair.

Naphcon A and Zaditor both contain an antihistamine. Naphcon A also contains a decongestant/redness reliever.

Naphcon A is available over-the-counter (OTC).

Side effects of Naphcon A and Zaditor that are similar include eye stinging.

Side effects of Naphcon A that are different from Zaditor include eye redness, dilated pupils, and blurred vision.

Side effects of Zaditor that are different from Naphcon A include burning/irritation of the eye, eye dryness, headache, stuffy/runny nose, bad taste in your mouth, and increased sensitivity to light.

Naphcon A may interact with MAO inhibitors, drugs for high blood pressure, and tricyclic antidepressants.

Zaditor may interact with other drugs.

Common side effects of Naphcon A include:

• eye stinging or redness,
• dilated pupils, or
• blurred vision

Common side effects of Zaditor include:

• burning/stinging/irritation of the eye,
• eye dryness,
• headache,
• stuffy/runny nose,
• bad taste in your mouth, and
• increased sensitivity to light.

Tell your doctor if you have unlikely but serious side effects of Zaditor including:

• eye pain,
• increased redness or swelling of the eye, or
• vision problems.

Naphcon A (naphazoline hydrochloride and pheniramine maleate) is a combination of a decongestant/redness reliever and an antihistamine used for the temporary relief of redness and itching of the eye(s) due to ragweed pollen, grass, and animal dander and hair. Naphcon A is available over-the-counter (OTC).

Zaditor (ketotifen fumarate) Ophthalmic Solution is an antihistamine used to treat itching of the eyes caused by allergy to dust, pollen, animals, or other allergens. Zaditor is available in generic form.

Naphcon A may interact with:

• MAO inhibitors,
• drugs for high blood pressure, and
• tricyclic antidepressants

Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

Other drugs may interact with Zaditor ophthalmic. Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements you use.

The dose of Naphcon A for adults and children 6 years and over is 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) up to 4 times daily.

The dose of Zaditor for 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.