Tofen Syrup is an oral medication containing Ketotifen Fumarate, classified as a non-bronchodilator antiasthmatic and a potent H1-antihistamine. It is primarily used for the long-term prevention of bronchial asthma and the symptomatic treatment of allergic conditions like rhinitis and conjunctivitis. Produced by The ACME Laboratories Ltd., it is a trusted choice for managing chronic respiratory sensitivity.
What is Tofen Syrup Used For?
Tofen Syrup (1 mg/5 ml) is prescribed for the following indications:
-
Asthma Prophylaxis: Long-term prevention of bronchial asthma (it may take several weeks to reach full effect).
-
Allergic Rhinitis: Relief of sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes associated with hay fever.
-
Allergic Skin Conditions: Management of chronic urticaria (hives) and atopic dermatitis.
-
Allergic Conjunctivitis: Prevention and treatment of eye irritation caused by allergens.
Clinical Insight: Ketotifen works by stabilizing mast cells and preventing the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine. Unlike Monas (Montelukast), which blocks leukotrienes, Tofen focuses on the early and late-phase allergic responses. For a detailed look at the chemical properties, you can review Ketotifen on DrugBank.
Dosage
Dosage should be adjusted based on age and clinical response. Tofen Syrup is typically taken twice daily (morning and evening) with food.
-
Adults: 5 ml (1 mg) twice daily. In severe cases, this may be increased to 10 ml twice daily.
-
Children (Above 3 years): 5 ml (1 mg) twice daily.
-
Infants (6 months to 3 years): 2.5 ml (0.5 mg) twice daily.
Common Side Effects
Tofen is generally safe, but its antihistamine properties can cause:
-
Drowsiness: Especially during the first few days of treatment.
-
Dry Mouth: A common mild side effect.
-
Dizziness: Occasional lightheadedness.
-
Increased Appetite: Which may lead to weight gain over long-term use.
2026 Safety Update: According to recent clinical reviews on PubMed, sedation is the most frequent side effect, but it typically diminishes with continued use. Patients are advised to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery during the initial phase of treatment.
Important Warnings & Precautions
-
No Sudden Stops: Patients already on anti-asthmatic drugs should not stop them abruptly when starting Tofen.
-
Diabetes: Tofen Syrup contains sugar; use with caution in diabetic patients.
-
Alcohol: Avoid alcohol as it may increase the sedative effect.
-
Infections: Ketotifen does not treat acute asthma attacks or active respiratory infections.
Tofen Syrup vs. Fenadin Syrup: Key Differences and Usage
While both are used for allergies, Tofen is unique for its mast-cell stabilizing properties used in asthma prevention, whereas Fenadin (Fexofenadine) is a pure second-generation antihistamine used for rapid allergy relief.
| Feature | Tofen Syrup (Ketotifen) | Fenadin Syrup (Fexofenadine) |
| Drug Class | Mast Cell Stabilizer / Antihistamine | 2nd Gen Antihistamine |
| Primary Use | Asthma Prophylaxis & Allergies | Seasonal Allergies & Hay Fever |
| Sedation | Possible (mild to moderate) | Non-sedating |
| Mechanism | Stabilizes Mast Cells | Blocks Histamine Receptors |
| Unit Price (100ml) | ৳80.00 | ৳65.00 – ৳75.00 |
Tofen Syrup Price in Bangladesh (January 2026 Update)
The following table provides the updated pricing for Tofen and its variants by ACME.
| Product Name | Format | Strength | Price (BDT) |
| Tofen Syrup | Syrup | 1 mg/5 ml (100 ml) | ৳80.00 |
| Tofen Tablet | Tablet | 1 mg | ৳4.00 (Per Unit) |
Tofen Syrup Alternative Brands & Prices
Here are the top alternatives available in Bangladesh as of January 2026:
| Brand Name | Company Name | Price (100ml BDT) |
| Alarid | Square Pharmaceuticals PLC | ৳75.00 |
| Ketomar | Incepta Pharmaceuticals | ৳65.00 |
| Prosma | ACI Limited | ৳76.00 |
| Stafen | Aristopharma Ltd. | ৳75.00 |
| Totifen | Eskayef (SK+F) | ৳63.00 |
| Ketifen | ACME Laboratories Ltd. | ৳75.00 |
| Fenat | Drug International Ltd. | ৳65.00 |
| Kiti | Beacon Pharmaceuticals | ৳75.00 |
| Ketof | Ibn Sina Pharmaceutical | ৳66.00 |
| Toma | Navana Pharmaceuticals | ৳65.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tofen Syrup
Q: What is the Tofen Syrup price in Bangladesh?
As of January 2026, the retail price for a 100 ml bottle of Tofen Syrup is ৳80.00.
Q: What is Tofen Syrup used for?
It is primarily used for the long-term prevention of asthma and the treatment of allergic conditions like hay fever, itchy skin, and allergic rhinitis.
Q: What are the Tofen Syrup side effects?
The most common side effects are drowsiness, dry mouth, and increased appetite. Drowsiness usually goes away after a few days of use.
Q: Is Tofen Syrup safe during pregnancy?
It should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed and prescribed by a doctor. Clinical data on fetal risk is limited; you can check the FDA drug safety database for broader guidance.
Q: What is the recommended Tofen dose?
For adults and children over 3, the dose is 5 ml (1 mg) twice daily. For infants, it is 2.5 ml (0.5 mg) twice daily.
Q: Does Tofen Syrup make you sleepy?
Yes, it can cause mild to moderate sedation, especially during the first few doses.
Q: Can Tofen be used for a dry cough?
It may help if the cough is caused by an allergy or asthma. It is not an “antitussive” (cough suppressant) for the common cold.
Q: How long does it take for Tofen to work for asthma?
It is a preventive medicine and may take 4 to 10 weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect in asthma patients.
Q: Are there alternatives to Tofen in Bangladesh?
Yes, popular alternatives include Zadit (Incepta), Tosma (Square), and Kast (Beximco), all priced around ৳80.00.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes as of January 2026. Always consult a qualified physician before starting any medication, especially for children.
