Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ASTEMIZOLE - ORAL (ast-EMM-eh-zole)
BRAND NAME(S): Hismanal
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
WARNING: Though occurring rarely, severe (sometimes fatal) heart problems have occurred in patients using astemizole. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. Do not take this drug if you have liver problems or are also using azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), mibefradil, or quinine. If you faint, stop using this drug immediately and contact your doctor.
USES: Astemizole is an antihistamine that provides relief from symptoms of allergies such as rash, hives, watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes and sneezing. This drug has been withdrawn from the U.S. market due to safety or effectiveness problems.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication on an empty stomach at least 2 hours after a meal. Never take more than one 10mg tablet daily.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause headache, increased appetite, stomach upset, nervousness, dry mouth. These effects should lessen as your body adjusts to the drug. If they persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor promptly if the following effects occur: difficulty urinating, ringing in the ears. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: dizziness, fainting, fast/irregular heartbeat. Astemizole does not usually cause drowsiness when used at recommended doses and under normal circumstances. However, be sure of the drug's effects before engaging in activities that require alertness. Elderly persons may be more sensitive to the effects of astemizole and may require lower doses. Watch for dizziness, sedation, confusion, excitation or irritability. Notify your doctor if such symptoms occur. Children may be more sensitive to the effects of astemizole and may require lower doses. Watch for dizziness, sedation, confusion, excitation or irritability. Notify the MD if such symptoms occur. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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