Clemastine helps to relieve symptoms of cold and allergy, such as runny nose, itch, watery eyes and sneezing. It also helps relieve itching, swelling and allergic skin conditions such as hives and itchy rash.
Take Clemastine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by the doctor.
Clemastine may be taken with or without food. Take it with food to reduce stomach discomfort. Try to take it at the same time each day.
You may stop taking Clemastine once you feel better, unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- asthma
- porphyria (an inherited disorder that may cause skin or nerve problems)
Clemastine should not be given to children below one year of age.
Do not take Clemastine if you are breastfeeding.
Do not take this medicine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- glaucoma (increased pressure in the eyes)
- prostate enlargement or bladder problems
- stomach ulcers
- history of asthma
- narrowing or blockage between the stomach and intestine
- fits or seizures
- inability to empty the bladder and urinate
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Clemastine to a child or elderly person. Children and elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Clemastine may cause drowsiness, dizziness and blurred vision. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects may include any of the following: dry mouth, stomach discomfort, headache, tiredness.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not use Clemastine if you are currently taking or have taken a medicine to treat depression known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days or a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, desipramine, imipramine and doxepin.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines used to treat difficulty in sleeping or anxiety e.g. midazolam, diazepam, zolpidem
- strong painkiller e.g. tramadol, oxycodone
- medicine to treat depression e.g. sertraline, fluoxetine, amitriptyline
- medicine for cold or allergy e.g. diphenhydramine
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Clemastine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol. Alcohol will worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Clemastine.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.