| Older
types of antihistamine such as chlorphenamine and cinnarizine
can cause sedation (drowsiness). You should not take them
if you need to drive, operate machinery, or carry out other
dangerous activities.
Check with your GP or pharmacist
if you’re not sure whether your medicine will make you
sleepy and to find out which activities are safe. Always read
instructions on the packet.
Many antihistamines are safe for children
to use, but you should check with your pharmacist or GP before
giving them, and always read the dosage instructions carefully.
Hydroxyzine should not be given to children
under six months, and promethazine and trimeprazine are not
suitable for children under two years old.
Women should avoid all unnecessary medication
during pregnancy – if you have severe symptoms, ask
your GP for advice. Instead of medication, try to avoid the
things that cause your symptoms, such as animal hair or pollen.
Antihistamines can make certain conditions
worse, such as glaucoma and enlarged prostate gland. You should
avoid antihistamines or take a reduced dose if you have liver
or kidney disease.
You should not take terfenadine at the same
time as oral antifungal drugs, grapefruit juice, or certain
antibiotics – ask your GP for advice, as these combinations
can cause heart damage.
What
are Antihistamine drugs? |
How
does it work? | What
is it used for? | Who
can use it?|
Side
effects|
Managing
Allergies During Pregnancy|
Asthma
in Pregnancy|
How
To Survive Spring Allergies|
Allegra
A Common Anti Allergy Drug|
Practical
Measures to Prevent and Treat Allergy|
Give
Your Allergies A Sniffle-Free Spring
|
