Astemizole Description

Generic Name: ASTEMIZOLE

Pronunciation: (a stem' mi zole)

Trade Name(s): Acemix, Acipax, Afdizol, Alerzote, Astelong, Astem, Hismanal, Histalong, Histeeise, Minastem, Perione, Stemix

Why it is prescribed: Astemizole, an antihistamine, is used to relieve hay fever and seasonal allergy symptoms including hives, runny nose, sneezing, throat irritation, and red, irritated, itching, and tearing eyes. It causes fewer side effects, particularly drowsiness, than other antihistamines.

When it is to be taken: Astemizole is usually taken once a day as needed. Take it on an empty stomach, at least two hours after a meal. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully.

How it should be taken: Astemizole comes in the form of tablets. Your prescription tells you how much to take at each dose. You may be instructed to take larger doses on the first two days of therapy. Follow these instructions carefully. Do not take more of the medication that instructed.

Special Instruction:
1. Astemizole makes some people drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
2. If you forget to take a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if you remember a missed dose near the time you are scheduled to take the next dose, take only the scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose.

Side Effects:
1. Drowsiness, fatigue, headache, dizziness, nervousness, weight gain, increased appetite, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth or throat are the common side effects seen with this drug. Contact your doctor if these effects persist or are severe.
2. Difficulty breathing, palpitations and irregular heartbeat are rare. Stop taking the drug and contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions:
1. Alcoholic beverages can add to the drowsiness or dizziness caused by astemizole. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice about the safe use of alcohol.
2. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should inform their doctors.
3. Before taking astemizole, tell your doctor if you have asthma; lung disease; glaucoma; an enlarged prostate; liver, kidney, or heart disease; high blood pressure; an overactive thyroid gland; ulcers; or difficulty urinating.
4. Before taking astemizole, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially barbiturates, tranquilizers, sedatives, narcotics, medication for depression or pain, sleeping pills, and other medication for allergies.
5. Before having surgery with a general anesthetic, including dental surgery, tell the doctors or dentist in charge that you are taking astemizole.

Storage Conditions: Keep this medication in the container it came in tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight.