Hismanal with the generic name Astemizole acts as an antihistamine. The role of antihistamines is to stop sneezing, runny nose, itchiness and tearing of the eyes, and other hypersensitive reactions. Astemizole is used to deal with allergic reactions, hives (urticaria), and other hypersensitive inflammatory circumstances. However, it has been pulled away from the United States market since 1999.

Drug Contraindications

The use of Hismanal is contraindicated if you are using any of the following drugs:

• A fungicide medication such as Nizoral (Ketoconazole) or Sporanox (Itraconazole);
• An antibiotic drug such as erythromycin (brand name Erythrocin or E-Mycin or Ethril or Ilosone or Pediamycin), Biaxin (clarithromycin), or TAO (troleandomycin);
• A medication for the treatment of malaria like quinine; or
• An antidepressant drug called Serzone (nefazodone).

A severe side effect like uneven heartbeats could take place if you consume Astemizole with any of the medications named above.
Things to Discuss with a Physician
Prior to the use of Hismanal (Astemizole), inform your physician if you suffer from the following conditions:

• Bronchial asthma or a different disease affecting the lungs;
• Low levels of potassium in your blood;
• Retention of urine in the urinary bladder or a prostate enlargement;
• A disease affecting the kidneys;
• A disease affecting the liver; or
• A disease of the heart, particularly an uneven heartbeat.

You may not be in a position to ingest Astemizole, or you may need a dose alteration or especial supervising throughout treatment if you suffer from any of the medical problems mentioned above.
Hismanal is classified under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pregnancy category C. This implies that it is not acknowledged whether Astemizole will do harm to an unborn baby. Do not start taking this drug without first speaking to your physician if you are heavy with child. It is also not acknowledged whether Astemizole excretes into breast milk. It is recommended to take Hismanal (Astemizole) after first informing your medical practitioner if you are nursing a baby.
Dosage & Administration
As far as dosage is concerned, patients should take Astemizole on one occasion per day, as prescribed by your health care provider. If you do not comprehend these guidances, request your chemist, nurse, or physician to explicate them to you.
Receive every dose orally with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. It should be swallowed empty-bellied, 1 hour ahead of or 2 hours subsequent to a meal. Simultaneous intake of Hismanal with grapefruit or grapefruit juice must be strictly avoided. Grapefruit items may add to quantity of Astemizole available in your system, which could result in hazardous side effects. Do not squeeze, chew, or burst the tablets. Swallow them entirely.
Overdoses of Astemizole are not recommended. Take this medication as said by your physician. Greater doses than the prescribed ones of Astemizole may lead to irregular pulsations, and on the odd occasion, death. If your signs are not being effectively cared for, tell your medico immediately. Preserve this drug at the typical temperature of a room away from dampness and heat.
Side Effects
If you go through any of the following life-threatening side effects, discontinue the medicine and notify your physician instantly or look for urgent medical aid:

• An hypersensitivity reaction (trouble taking a breath, congestion of your throat, puffiness of your face, tongue or lips, or urticaria);
• An asymmetrical heartbeat;
• Passing out from weakness; or
• Convulsions.

Other, less severe side effects may be more in all probability to happen. Keep on taking Astemizole and tell your medical practitioner if you go through:

• Sleepiness or lightheadedness;
• Headache;
• Anxiety;
• Nausea, looseness of the bowels, or uneasiness in the abdomen;
• Xerostomia; or
• Dry skin or itching.