How does it work?

Azatadine belongs to a group of medicines called sedating antihistamines. Histamine is a chemical produced by the body. It is stored in cells (mast cells) in almost all tissues of the body. When the body reacts to a foreign substance (an allergen e.g. flower pollen), the mast cells release their stores of histamine. Histamine may then bind to receptors (H-1 receptors) in many areas of the body causing an increase in blood flow to the area of the allergy and the release of other chemicals that add to the allergic response. This stimulates the symptoms of an allergic reaction such as inflammation of the skin, airways or tissues, rashes, itching of the skin, eyes or nose, nasal congestion or narrowing of the airways. Azatadine acts by blocking the binding of histamine to receptors in the body. It does not prevent the actual release of histamine from mast cells. By blocking the binding of histamine, the release of other chemicals and increased blood supply to the area is prevented or decreased. This results in prevention or relief of the typical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Histamine may be released from and act in a small (localised) area of the body e.g the nose. Alternatively, histamine can result in a serious or complete body reaction e.g. anaphylactic reaction. Azatadine is only useful for the prevention or relief of localised or less serious allergies such as hay fever or itchy rash (rather than very serious allergic reactions). Azatadine is called a sedating anti-histamine as it enters the brain in significant quantities and is therefore more likely to cause drowsiness than the newer group of non-sedating anti-histamines.

What is it used for?

Allergic conditions such as hay fever, itchy rash or reactions to insect bites

Warning!

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided.

Use with caution in

No known conditions

Not to be used in

Blockage of the area where the stomach joins the intestines (pyloro-duodenal obstruction)

Children less than 1 year of age

Difficulty in passing urine (urinary retention)

Enlarged prostate

Glaucoma

Peptic ulcer causing narrowing of an area of the gut passage

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not established. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor for further advice.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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