Acrivastine

About acrivastine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antihistamines.

It is used to prevent and relieve allergic conditions such as hay fever and some allergic skin reactions.

Exposure to pollen, pet fur, house dust or an insect bite can cause the body to produce a chemical called histamine. The release of histamine causes allergic symptoms which can include rashes, sneezing, watery eyes and a running or blocked nose.

Antihistamines stop the effects of histamine and help to relieve these symptoms.

Acrivastine is available in capsule form.

It is also sometimes known as: Benadryl Allergy Relief. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking acrivastine

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver or kidney problems
• if you suffer from epilepsy or porphyria
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to take acrivastine

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of acrivastine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Acrivastine is a non-sedating antihistamine however some people may still find that it causes drowsiness and blurred vision. Make 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.
• Alcohol will increase any feelings of drowsiness. If you do drink alcohol, do so in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• This preparation may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Try to avoid bright sunlight and sunbeds or use a sun cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.
• Acrivastine can occasionally cause a dry mouth. If you experience this try chewing sugar-free gum or sucking sugar-free sweets or pieces of ice. If your mouth becomes too dry, discuss the problem with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside acrivastine.

Can acrivastine cause problems?

Acrivastine does not generally cause any significant side effects, however speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome:

Drowsiness, headache, difficulty urinating (passing water), dry mouth, blurred vision, tummy upset, being aware of your heart beat, skin rashes, dizziness, confusion, mood changes, disturbed sleep or shakiness.

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

How to store acrivastine

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 30/11/2005