Clemastine tablets

Overview

Clemastine is a type of antihistamine that is used to relieve allergies, such as hay fever and allergic skin conditions.

It is a sedating antihistamine, meaning it will make you feel sleepy or drowsy.

You can buy clemastine tablets without a prescription at a pharmacy.

Clemastine works by blocking the effects of histamine, a chemical that is released when your body is exposed to allergens such as pollen, pet fur, house dust, or insect bites.

By blocking the effects of histamine, it helps relieve allergic symptoms such as skin rashes, sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny or blocked nose.

Common side effects of clemastine are:

• Feeling tired or sleepy.

• Dizziness.

• Dry mouth, nose and throat.

You will find a full list in the manufacturer's information leaflet supplied with your medicine.

The unwanted effects often improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for further advice.

Before you start taking clemastine it is important that you discuss the treatment with a doctor or pharmacist if:

• You are pregnant, trying for a baby, or breastfeeding.

• You have a problem with the way your liver works, or if you have a problem with your kidneys.

• You have a condition which causes increased pressure in your eyes, such as glaucoma.

• You have prostate problems, or if you have been experiencing any difficulty peeing (urinating).

• You know you have a blockage in your small intestines.

• You have a stomach ulcer.

• You have epilepsy.

• You have a rare inherited blood condition known as porphyria.

• You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• You have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

• Read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside your pack for more information about clemastine tablets and side effects.

• Take clemastine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you to. The usual recommended doses are:

  • For adults: 1 (1 mg) tablet twice daily, taken morning and evening.

  • For children aged 6-12 years: ½-1 tablet twice daily, taken morning and evening.

  • For children aged 3-6 years: ½ tablet twice daily, taken morning and evening.

• You can take clemastine before or after meals. Some people find it helps to swallow the tablets with a drink of water.

• If you forget to take a dose, don't worry, just take the next dose when it is due and then continue as before. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

• Most people only need to take an antihistamine for a short while when they have symptoms. You should stop taking clemastine once your symptoms have eased.

• Clemastine may cause drowsiness. If this happens to you, do not drive and do not use tools or machines. Alcohol will make the drowsiness worse, so it is best not to drink alcohol while you are on clemastine.

• If you are having an operation or any treatment (particularly if it is to test for an allergy), tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking an antihistamine.

• Clemastine may cause some people's skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than normal. Use a sunscreen that protects against UVA light and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, especially in strong sunlight or until you know how your skin reacts. Do not use sunbeds.

• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with an antihistamine. This is because a number of other medicines can interfere with the way clemastine works and can increase the risk of side effects.

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

How long does clemastine take to work?

Clemastine usually starts working within 30 minutes to 1 hour. It can quickly relieve allergy symptoms such as itching, sneezing, hives, and watery eyes.

Because it is a drowsy antihistamine, some people may feel sleepy soon after taking it.

Can you take clemastine every day for allergies?

Clemastine can be taken daily for short-term allergy relief if recommended by a doctor or pharmacist. However, it may cause drowsiness, so it is not always ideal for long-term use.

Always follow the dosage instructions provided with the medicine.

What medicines should not be taken with clemastine?

Avoid combining clemastine with alcohol or medicines that cause drowsiness, such as sleeping tablets, strong painkillers, or some cold and flu remedies.

Ask a pharmacist before mixing clemastine with other medicines.

Is clemastine a drowsy antihistamine?

Yes. Clemastine is a sedating antihistamine that can cause sleepiness, tiredness, and slower reaction times.

Do not drive or operate machinery if you feel drowsy after taking it.