Indications
Mizolastine is a long-acting antihistamine used in adults and children aged 12 years and over to relieve symptoms of seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis (hay fever: sneezing, runny or itchy nose, itchy watery eyes) and of hives (urticaria), the itchy raised skin rash caused by allergy.
How It Works
During an allergic reaction the body releases histamine, which causes itching, sneezing, swelling and redness. Mizolastine blocks the H1 receptors that histamine acts on, and also reduces some other inflammatory signals. It causes less drowsiness than older antihistamines because little of it enters the brain. The modified-release tablet works over 24 hours.
Dosage and Administration
Adults and children 12 years and over: 10 mg once a day. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it. It can be taken with or without food. Not recommended for children under 12.
Interactions
- Must not be taken with Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Erythromycin, Clarithromycin or other macrolide antibiotics given by mouth or injection, as levels rise and heart rhythm problems may occur.
- Avoid other medicines that prolong the QT interval, such as some anti-arrhythmics (Amiodarone, Sotalol), some antipsychotics and Cisapride.
- Cimetidine, Ciclosporin and Nifedipine: use with caution.
- Alcohol: may add to any drowsiness.
Contraindications
- Allergy to Mizolastine or any ingredient.
- Significant liver disease.
- Significant heart disease, a history of irregular heartbeat, a slow heart rate, or a known or suspected long QT interval.
- Low blood potassium or other salt imbalances.
- Use with the interacting medicines listed above.
- Pregnancy.
Side Effects
Mizolastine is usually well tolerated. Common effects include drowsiness or tiredness, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, diarrhoea, stomach pain, nausea and increased appetite with weight gain. Less common effects include low blood pressure, anxiety, joint or muscle pain, and changes in liver tests. Rarely it may affect heart rhythm.
Get urgent medical help if you have palpitations, a fast or irregular heartbeat, fainting, or swelling of the face, lips or throat with difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy, especially in the first three months. Mizolastine passes into breast milk, so it is not recommended during breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
- Elderly people may be more sensitive to drowsiness and heart effects.
- Most people do not feel drowsy, but check how it affects you before driving or using machines.
- Tell your doctor about any heart problem before starting.
Overdose
Overdose may cause drowsiness and possible heart rhythm disturbances. Seek emergency medical help; heart monitoring may be needed.
Therapeutic Class
Second-generation antihistamine (H1 receptor antagonist).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.