How to use?
May be taken with food or milk if stomach
upset occurs. Sustained-release or long acting tablets and
capsules must be swallowed whole. Chewing or crushing the
sustained-release/long acting tablets or capsules will destroy
the long action and may increase side effects. For chewable
tablets, chew thoroughly and swallow. Shake suspensions well
before taking.
What side effects
can this medication cause?
The medication may cause
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Stomach upset
- Vision changes
- Irritability
- Dry mouth and nose.
These effects should subside as your body adjusts
to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform
your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: breathing
difficulties, pounding or irregular heartbeat, ringing in
the ears, difficulty urinating. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
What
special precautions should I follow?
Tell your doctor your medical history,
especially of: glaucoma (narrow angle), stomach ulcers, difficulty
urinating (e.g., enlarged prostate), heart disease, high blood
pressure, seizures, lung problems, overactive thyroid. Change
from a seated or lying position slowly to avoid dizziness.
Use caution in performing activities requiring alertness.
Limit alcohol intake to avoid excessive drowsiness. Caution
is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they
may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. Do not give
long-acting antihistamines to a child younger than 12 years
of age nor other dose forms of antihistamines to a child younger
than 6 years of age without doctor approval. This drug should
be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss
the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication may
be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
What About Interactions
With Other Drugs?
Tell your doctor of all the medications
you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially
of: sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants,
medication for depression, seizure medications, narcotic pain
relievers, other medications for colds/hay fever/allergies.
Because this medication may affect allergy testing, you may
have to stop using this medication for several days before
the tests are performed. Consult your doctor about this. Do
not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
In case of emergency/overdose
If overdose is suspected, contact your
local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
Symptoms of overdose in children may include abnormal eye
movements, flushed face, dry mouth, change in amount of urine,
fever, excitation, agitation, bizarre behavior, confusion,
restlessness, irritability, delirium, twitching, tiredness,
abnormal tongue movement, trembling extremities, slurred speech,
or seizures. Symptoms of overdose in adults may include drowsiness,
or unconsciousness, which may be followed by excitement or
seizures.
What If I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered;
do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
How Should It Be Stored?
Store at room temperature between 59 and
86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture
and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze
liquid forms of this medication.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Do not share this product with others.
NOTE: The above
information is intended to supplement, not substitute for,
the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed
to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate,
or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional
before taking the product. |