Clemastine is used to relieve hay fever and allergy symptoms, including sneezing; runny nose; and red, itchy, tearing eyes in adults and children older than 6 years of age. Prescription strength clemastine is also used to relieve the itching and swelling of hives in adults and children older than 6 years of age. Clemastine should not be used in children younger than 6 years old, because it may cause serious or life-threatening side effects in young children. Clemastine should be used carefully in children who are 6-11 years old. Clemastine helps control symptoms of allergies and colds but does not treat the cause of these symptoms or speed recovery. Clemastine should not be used to cause sleepiness in children. Clemastine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Clemastine comes as a tablet and a liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken two or three times a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label or package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take clemastine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor or directed by the label.
If you are taking the liquid, do not use a household spoon to measure your dose. Use the measuring spoon or cup that came with the medication or use a spoon made especially for measuring medication.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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