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Clemastine

  • Clemastine is used to prevent and relieve allergic conditions.
  • The most common side-effect is drowsiness.
  • Clemastine may affect your ability to drive and use machines. Do not drive if you are not fully alert or able to see clearly.

About clemastine

Type of medicineAntihistamine
Used forRelief of allergic conditions
Also calledTavegil®
Available asTablets

Exposure to substances such as pollen, pet fur, and house dust can cause the body to release a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms which can include sneezing, watery eyes, a runny or blocked nose and skin reactions such as itching and rashes. Clemastine reduces the effects of histamine and helps to relieve these symptoms. It can be used in adults or children

Before taking clemastine

Before taking clemastine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have liver problems.
  • If you have glaucoma (increased pressure in your eye).
  • If you suffer from epilepsy.
  • If you have prostate problems, or have been experiencing difficulty passing urine.
  • If you know you have a blockage in your small intestines.
  • 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 this or to any other medicine.

How to take clemastine

  • Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
  • Clemastine is usually taken twice daily.
  • It is not important whether you take clemastine before or after food.
  • Try to take clemastine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Clemastine may cause drowsiness. Do not drink alcohol while you are taking clemastine as it will increase these feelings of drowsiness.
  • If you are having an operation or any dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking clemastine.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with clemastine.
  • Clemastine may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight. 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.

Can clemastine 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.

Possible side-effectsWhat can I do if I experience this
Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred visionMake sure your reactions are normal before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert or able to see properly
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Difficulty passing urineSpeak with your doctor if this becomes troublesome
Dry mouthTry chewing sugar-free gum or sweets
Stomach upsetStick to simple foods - avoid rich or spicy foods

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

How to store clemastine

  • 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


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

  • British National Formulary; 60th Edition (September 2010) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.
Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2011DocID: 3876DocRef: dils2742Last Reviewed: 10 Mar 2011Version: 23
For the planned review period see the Data Creation and Quality Control Process.
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