Sign inBefore taking acrivastine
Before taking acrivastine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:
- If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
- If you have kidney problems.
- If you suffer from epilepsy.
- If you are over 65 years of age.
- If you have porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
- If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antihistamine or to any other medicine.
How to take acrivastine
- Before taking acrivastine, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
- Take acrivastine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.
- Acrivastine capsules can be taken up to three times a day if needed.
Getting the most from your treatment
- Acrivastine is called a non-drowsy antihistamine, however it can sometimes cause drowsiness in some people. If you are affected do not drive or operate machinery or do any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
- If you drink alcohol while you are taking acrivastine, be aware of its effects on you and do not drink more than moderate amounts.
- If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with acrivastine.
Can acrivastine cause problems?
Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.
| Rare side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 1,000 people who take this medicine | What can I do if I experience this |
| Drowsiness, tiredness | If you are affected, do not drive or operate machinery or do other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. It is best to avoid alcohol as this will make you more drowsy |
If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
How to store acrivastine
- Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
- Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
Important information about all medicines
|
References
- Manufacturer's PIL, Benadryl® Allergy Relief, McNeil Products Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated May 2009, accessed October 2010.
- British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF)