Gistafen: instructions for use
Histafen is a drug that belongs to the group of H1-histamine receptor blockers. It is used to treat various allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, hay fever, urticaria, angioedema, allergic pruritic dermatoses, including atopic dermatitis.
The drug is produced by Olainfarm and Olainsky HFZ companies in Latvia. Its international name is sehifenadine, and its synonyms are bicarfen.
Histaphene is available in the form of 50 mg tablets, the active substance of which is sequifenadine. It is an effective and safe drug for the treatment of allergic reactions in adult patients.
However, before using Gistafen, you must familiarize yourself with the special instructions and contraindications. The drug is not recommended for use in case of hypersensitivity to the active substance or excipients of the drug, bronchial asthma, pregnancy, breastfeeding, or while taking MAO inhibitors.
The drug should be taken with caution in case of impaired renal and liver function. In such cases, treatment begins with a minimum dose.
Side effects that may occur when using Gistafen include dry mouth, mild epigastric pain, dyspepsia, and increased appetite. Rarely, leukopenia, menstrual irregularities, increased urination, headache, and drowsiness may occur. Agitation and insomnia are more common at high doses.
Sehifenadine does not enhance the inhibitory effect of hypnotics and alcohol on the central nervous system. However, during the treatment period you should refrain from drinking alcohol.
In case of overdose, symptoms such as dry mucous membranes, headache, vomiting, and abdominal pain may occur. Treatment consists of symptomatic therapy; there is no known antidote.
There are no clinical studies on the use of the drug in children and elderly patients (after 70 years of age). Sehifenadine tablets can be combined with topical medications (ointment, compress, eye drops, nasal drops).
In most cases, drowsiness decreases or disappears after 2-5 days from the start of treatment. Treatment is continued until symptoms disappear completely. The duration of treatment may vary depending on the nature and severity of the allergic reaction.
If you experience allergic symptoms, you should consult a doctor. The doctor will determine the need to use Gistafen and prescribe a dosage that must be strictly followed. It is not recommended to change the dosage on your own without consulting your doctor.
Overall, Gistafen is an effective and safe drug for the treatment of allergic reactions in adult patients. However, before use, you must read the special instructions and contraindications, and also follow the instructions for use and dosage prescribed by your doctor.