Overview

Clemastine Fumarate is an OTC drug, and is available under many names and dosage forms worldwide. Most common brand name is Tavegyl.
Tavegyl is an antihistamine used to relieve the symptoms caused by allergic reactions like hay fever or urticaria. The symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, itching eyes, etc. Unlike loratadine or fexofenadine, clemastine is a sedating antihistamine, however it exhibits fewer side effects than most of the widely used antihistamines. Clemastine is also classified as an antipruritic (i.e. it stops itching). Clemastine blocks the effects of histamine, a substance released in the body during allergic reactions (symptoms can include red rash, tissue swelling or severe itching).

Active Ingredients

Tavegyl has an active ingredient Clemastine Fumarate which is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative side effects. Antihistamines competitively antagonize various physiological effects of histamine including increased capillary permeability and dilatation, the formation of edema, the "flare" and "itch" response, and gastrointestinal and respiratory smooth muscle constriction. Antihistamines act by competitively blocking H1- receptor sites. Antihistamines do not pharmacologically antagonize or chemically inactivate histamine, nor do they prevent the release of histamine.

Indications to use

For the relief of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis such as sneezing, rhinorrhea, pruritus and acrimation; runny nose; and red, itchy, tearing eyes. Also for the management of mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema. Used as a self-medication for temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold.

Contraindications

If you have any of the following conditions:

• glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
• severe stomach problems
• prostate disorders
• bladder neck obstruction

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if anything in the above list is applicable to you.
As well, do not take Tavegyl if you are allergic to clemastine, other antihistamines or any of the other ingredients of this medicine. Do not give Tavegyl to children below 3 years of age due to high active substance content.

Side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.
Discontinue using Tavegyl and seek medical attention if you have any of the following side effects, which can be symptoms of an allergic reaction:

• breathing or swallowing difficulties
• swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat
• severe skin itching with red rash and pimples
• In rare cases can cause fatigue and drowsiness

Application instructions

Always take this medicine exactly as described in this leaflet or as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. Take tablets before meals with water.
Adults and children 12 years and older:
1 tablet twice a day, in the morning and at night. Do not take more than 6 tablets per 24 hours if not prescribed otherwise by your doctor. Never take more than 2 tablets per dose.
Children from 3 to 12 years:
Give one tablet before breakfast and before bed. Children from 3 to 6 years:0.5 mg (V tablet);
Children from 6 to 12 years: 0.5 - 1 mg (V - 1 tablet)
Do not exceed the recommended dose.
In case of over-dosage or accidental ingestion, contact your doctor, pharmacist or emergency medical service.
If you forget to take Tavegyl take a dose as soon as you remember to do so and continue using the medicine as usual.
Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.