Generic
Astemizole
At a glance
Astemizole — brands, prices, indication, dosage and side effects available in Bangladesh.
Description
Astemizole belongs to a group of medicines called antihistamines. It used for treating allergic conditions like runny nose, red and watering eyes, or skin rashes. It also treat allergic reactions due to any medicine or food. Astemizole should be taken on an empty stomach. The dose may vary depending on what you are taking it for. Take it as it has been prescribed by your doctor. You may need this medicine only on days you have symptoms, or you may need to take it every day to prevent symptoms from happening. If you stop taking it earlier than advised, your symptoms may come back. This medicine is generally very safe. The most common side effect is dizziness. This is usually mild and go away after a couple of days as your body adjusts. Consult your doctor if it persists or worry you. Before taking it, you should tell your doctor if you have any problems with your liver or kidneys or with your heart as antihistamines can cause your heart to beat faster. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult with their doctor before taking it. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can cause excessive drowsiness with this medicine. It usually does not impair your ability to drive, but you should not drive if it makes you feel sleepy or dizzy. Astemizole is an antihistaminic medication. It treats allergy symptoms such as such as itching, swelling, and rashes by blocking the effects of a chemical messenger (histamine) in the body.
Indications
• Allergic conditions
Mechanism of action
Astemizole is a piperidine derivative, non-sedating antihistamine.
Dosage
Adult Dose: Oral Allergic conditions Adult: 10 mg once daily. Child Dose: Oral Allergic conditions Child: 6-12 yr: 5 mg once daily.
Administration
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Astemizole is to be taken empty stomach.
Side effects
Common: • Sleepiness
Precautions & warnings
[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] It is not known whether Astemizole alters the ability to drive. Do not drive if you experience any symptoms that affect your ability to concentrate and react. Your doctor has prescribed Astemizole to help relieve allergy symptoms such as itching, swelling, and rashes. As compared to other similar medications, it is much less likely to make you feel sleepy. Be cautious while driving or doing anything that requires concentration as it can cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication as it may cause increased sleepiness. Stop taking Astemizole at least three days before taking an allergy test as it can affect the test results.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity. Porphyria.
Drug interactions
Imidazole, triazole antifungals, and the macrolide antibacterials inhibit the hepatic metabolism of astemizole. Avoid concomitant admin of other potentially arrhythmogenic drugs. Co-admin with diuretics may cause electrolyte imbalance. Concurrent use with terfenadine is not recommended.
Food interactions
[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] It is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol with Astemizole. Please consult your doctor.
Use in pregnancy
[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Astemizole may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
Use in lactation
[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Information regarding the use of Astemizole during breastfeeding is not available. Please consult your doctor.
Renal / hepatic impairment
[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] There is limited information available on the use of Astemizole in patients with kidney disease. Please consult your doctor. [CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] There is limited information available on the use of Astemizole in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.