Zyrtec Eye Drops

If you have eye itching due to allergies, Zyrtec Itchy Eye Drops may be able to provide some relief. This nonprescription product works by blocking a certain type of histamine receptor in the body. The drops are used twice daily in the affected eye(s). Although most people tolerate the drops well, possible side effects include red eyes, runny nose, and headache.

What Are Zyrtec Eye Drops?

Zyrtec® Itchy Eye Drops (ketotifen ophthalmic solution) is an eye drop used to relieve eye itching due to allergies. Specifically, it is approved to treat eye allergies (known medically as allergic conjunctivitis) due to pollen, ragweed, animal hair and dander, or grass.
 
This medication is available without a prescription.
 
(Click Zyrtec Eye Drops Uses for more information, including possible off-label purposes.)
 

Who Makes Zyrtec Eye Drops?

This product is manufactured by McNeil Consumer Healthcare.
 

How Does This Medication Work?

Zyrtec Eye Drops contains an antihistamine (ketotifen).
 Ketotifen is an H1 receptor antagonist. This means that it blocks a specific type of histamine receptor in the body known as H1 receptors. Since the symptoms of allergic reactions are partly caused by histamine, Zyrtec Eye Drops can help prevent or relieve allergy symptoms.
 
The active ingredient of Zyrtec Eye Drops is different from cetirizine, the active ingredient in other Zyrtec products.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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