Pemirolast Potassium

Allopathic
Indications
  • Allergic Conjunctivitis:
    For the prevention and treatment of ocular itching associated with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Off-label Uses:
    Occasionally used for vernal keratoconjunctivitis and other allergic eye conditions.
Dosage & Administration
  • Route: Ophthalmic solution (eye drops).
  • Adults and children ≥3 years:
    Instill 1 drop into the affected eye(s) 4 times daily.
  • Duration: Continue during allergy season or as prescribed by physician.
  • Special populations:
    Safety and efficacy in children under 3 years have not been established. No dosage adjustments required for elderly.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Pemirolast potassium is a selective mast cell stabilizer. It inhibits degranulation of sensitized mast cells, thereby preventing the release of histamine and other pro-inflammatory mediators responsible for allergic symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling in ocular tissues.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption following ocular administration.
  • Distribution: Localized primarily to the conjunctival tissues.
  • Metabolism: Not significantly metabolized due to negligible systemic absorption.
  • Elimination: Any absorbed drug is excreted unchanged via the kidneys.
  • Onset: Symptom relief may begin within hours; maximal effect develops after several days.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy: FDA Pregnancy Category C. Animal studies show no direct fetal harm, but human data are insufficient; use only if clearly needed.
  • Lactation: Data unavailable; use with caution during breastfeeding.
Therapeutic Class
  • Mast cell stabilizer
  • Antiallergic ophthalmic agent
Contraindications
  • Hypersensitivity to pemirolast potassium or any component of the formulation.
Warnings & Precautions
  • Avoid use in patients with ocular infections.
  • Avoid contamination of the dropper tip to prevent infections.
  • Discontinue if eye irritation, pain, or worsening of symptoms occurs and consult a healthcare professional.
  • Remove contact lenses before administration; lenses may be reinserted 15 minutes after dosing.
Side Effects
  • Common: Mild ocular irritation, burning, stinging, conjunctival hyperemia.
  • Rare: Blurred vision, dry eyes, headache, hypersensitivity reactions.
  • Most side effects are mild and transient, typically occurring shortly after instillation.
Drug Interactions
  • No clinically significant drug interactions reported due to minimal systemic absorption.
  • When used with other ophthalmic drugs, separate administration by at least 5 minutes.
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • No major recent changes in labeling or dosing recommendations.
  • Continued endorsement as a safe alternative to topical antihistamines for allergic conjunctivitis.
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Protect from light and excessive heat.
  • Keep container tightly closed when not in use.
  • Do not freeze.
  • Discard 4 weeks after opening to prevent contamination.