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Clemastine

Also indexed as: Antihist-1®, Tavist®, Tavist® Allergy

Combination drug: Tavist®-D

Clemastine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergy) symptoms including sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. It is also used to treat itching and swelling associated with uncomplicated allergic skin reactions. Clemastine is available in nonprescription products alone and in a combination formula to treat symptoms of allergy, colds, and upper respiratory infections.

Interactions with Herbs

Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
Antihistamines, including clemastine, can cause “anticholinergic” side effects such as dryness of mouth and heart palpitations. Henbane also has anticholinergic activity and side effects. Therefore, use with clemastine could increase the risk of anticholinergic side effects,1 though apparently no interactions have yet been reported with clemastine and henbane. Henbane should not be taken except by prescription from a physician trained in its use, as it is extremely toxic.

Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds

Alcohol
Clemastine causes drowsiness.2 Alcohol may intensify this effect and increase the risk of accidental injury.3 To prevent problems, people taking clemastine or clemastine-containing products should avoid alcohol.

Summary of Interactions for Clemastine

Depletion or interference None known
Adverse interaction Henbane*
Side effect reduction/prevention None known
Supportive interaction None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability None known

For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

References:

1. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council, 1998, 146.

2. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 191c.

3. Threlkeld DS, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, May 1998, 191c.