Ketotifen is primarily used for what purpose?

Ketotifen is an antihistamine that is primarily used for preventing allergic conjunctivitis. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when allergens trigger an inflammatory response in the eyes, leading to symptoms such as redness, itching, and tearing. Ketotifen works by blocking the H1 histamine receptors, which helps to alleviate these allergic symptoms by preventing the release of histamine from mast cells.

This medication is available in both oral and topical forms, with the topical formulation specifically addressing eye-related allergic reactions. While it has anti-inflammatory properties, its main action is to prevent the symptoms caused by allergens, thereby making it effective in a prophylactic role rather than as a treatment for currently presenting symptoms.

The other options refer to different uses that do not align with the primary role of ketotifen. For example, reducing ocular inflammation could involve corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory agents, increasing tear production would typically involve medications for dry eye syndrome, and treating bacterial infections would require antibiotics rather than an antihistamine like ketotifen. Therefore, using ketotifen aligns most accurately with the purpose of preventing allergic conjunctivitis.