Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

CLEMASTINE - ORAL

(KLEM-ast-een)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Allerhist-1, Contac 12-Hour Allergy, Dailyhist-1, Tavist, Vistamine

Uses

This medication is an antihistamine that provides relief from symptoms of allergies such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching and sneezing.

How To Use

Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully. Do no take it more often than recommended. Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them. This medication may be taken with food to help prevent stomach upset.

Side Effects

This medication may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, stomach upset, vision changes, irritability, dry mouth and dry nose. These effects should disappear as your body adjusts to the medication. If these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute. Notify your doctor if you develop any of the following effects while taking this medication: trouble breathing, heart pounding, irregular heartbeat, ringing in the ears, difficulty urinating. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using clemastine, consult with your doctor if you have any of the following: asthma, lung disease, ulcers, glaucoma, overactive thyroid, difficulty urinating, enlarged prostate, high blood pressure, history of seizures, heart disease, drug allergies, any other type of allergies. Do not take for several days before allergy testing as test results can be affected. Limit the use of alcohol to prevent excessive drowsiness. Use caution when using machinery or engaging in activities that require alertness. This drug may cause dizziness, especially when arising quickly from a seated or lying position. Change positions slowly. Elderly persons may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug and may require lower doses. Clemastine should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Clemastine is excreted into breast milk and it is recommended you do not breast-feed while taking this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, medication for depression or seizures, narcotic pain medication, other medication for colds/allergies/hay fever. Tell your doctor if you have taken any MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine) in the last two weeks. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, flushing, fever, weakness, tremor, muscle twitching, loss of consciousness, and seizures. In children, excitement may occur first followed by loss of coordination, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and seizures.

Notes

Do not share this product with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).