Acrivastine is an antihistamine drug that is used to treat the symptoms of environmental allergies, particularly hay fever. It can be found in allergy medications alone or combined with other active ingredients. This medication can be purchased over the counter and is marketed under various brand names.
The drug works by blocking the effects of a body chemical called histamine, which causes the symptoms of allergic reactions. These symptoms include red eyes, runny nose and sneezing. It might also be prescribed to treat rashes.
Acrivastine comes in pill form. It is suggested that it be taken with a full glass of water. The medication is meant to be taken temporarily. If symptoms do not subside after a week, the drug should be discontinued. It is advisable for a patient to consult a doctor before resuming use of the drug again.
Most patients do not experience side effects when taking acrivastine. The most common side effect associated with the drug is drowsiness. Even this symptom is rare.
Acrivastine is often combined with pseudoephedrine, which is a decongestant. It helps clear nasal congestion by reducing the size of blood vessels in the nose. The combined drugs have more potential side effects. These include a rash, constipation and blurred vision. Some patients also experience restlessness, tingling of the skin and a dry mouth.
More serious symptoms of the combined drugs include a fast heartbeat, reduced urination, dizziness and hallucinations. Some patients also experience anxiety, easier bleeding or bruising and extremely high blood pressure. These symptoms should receive immediate medical attention.
Women who are pregnant are typically advised not to take acrivastine. This is primarily because it has not been proved to be safe. It also has not been clear whether the drug excretes into breast milk. A doctor might suggest taking the medication if it appears that the risk to the fetus is lower than the benefit that the mother might derive from the drug.
Other people who might be at too high of a risk to take acrivastine include the elderly and children under the age of 12. Patients who have dramatically compromised kidney function might also be cautioned not to take the drug. A full medical history should be discussed with the doctor to determine whether the patient is allergic to any of the ingredients in the drug.
