CLEMASTINE Drug Interactions: What You Need to Know

Drug Interactions Additive CNS depression may occur when antihistamines are administered concomitantly with other CNS depressants including barbiturates, tranquilizers, and alcohol. Patients receiving antihistamines should be advised against the concurrent use of other CNS depressant drugs. Monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic effects of antihistamines.

CONTRAINDICATIONS Usage in Nursing Mothers Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally and for newborns and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers. Usage in Lower Respiratory Disease Antihistamines should not be used to treat lower respiratory tract symptoms including asthma. Antihistamines are also contraindicated in the following conditions: Hypersensitivity to clemastine fumarate or other antihistamines of similar chemical structure. Monoamine oxidase inhibitor therapy (see Drug Interactions section).

WARNINGS Antihistamines should be used with considerable caution in patients with: narrow angle glaucoma, stenosing peptic ulcer, pyloroduodenal obstruction, symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy, and bladder neck obstruction. Usage in Children Safety and efficacy of clemastine fumarate have not been established in children under the age of 12 years. Usage in Pregnancy Experience with this drug in pregnant women is inadequate to determine whether there is exists a potential for harm to the developing fetus. Usage with CNS Depressants Clemastine has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.). Usage in Activities Requiring Mental Alertness Patients should be warned about engaging in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving a car or operating appliances, machinery, etc. Usage in the Elderly (approximately 60 years or older) Antihistamines are more likely to cause dizziness, sedation, and hypotension in elderly patients.