Let's learn everything about Carbinoxamine, which is used for allergies!

Do you also sneeze often? Or do you have a runny nose ? Do you sometimes suddenly get red, itchy rashes on your body? Allergies like this are a problem for many people in our country. So, at a time like this, a doctor may prescribe you a medicine called Carbinoxamine. Today, let's talk about this medicine, how it works, and the things you need to be careful about when taking it.

Simply put, what is Carbinoxamine?

Carbinoxamine is a drug that belongs to the group of drugs called antihistamines . Okay, now what is this antihistamine? Imagine that when something foreign enters our body, for example, dust, pollen, or food like shrimp, our body's defense system starts to fight against it. In this fight, a chemical called "Histamine" is produced.

This histamine is responsible for many of the symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose , itchy eyes, and skin rashes. Carbinoxamine blocks the action of histamine. Then, those annoying allergy symptoms gradually decrease.

This medicine is mainly used for:

• For symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose caused by allergic rhinitis.
• For itchy, sudden skin rashes (Hives/Urticaria).

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is very important to tell your doctor about your medical history before taking any medication. Before taking Carbinoxamine, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• If you have asthma .
• If you have glaucoma, a condition where there is high pressure in the eye.
• Any heart disease .
• High blood pressure .
• Pain or discomfort when urinating.
• Stomach or intestinal problems (e.g., an ulcer).
• If you are taking MAOI medications (such as Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate) for depression or other conditions. Taking these two medications together can be very dangerous.
• If you have previously had an allergic reaction to carbinoxamine or another antihistamine, another medicine, food, or preservative (e.g., sulfites).
• If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant .
• If you are a breastfeeding mother .

It is very important for your own safety to tell the doctor these things without hiding them.

How exactly do you use this medicine?

This is also very simple.

• Take this medicine with a glass of water.
• Take the prescribed dose, at the prescribed time, as directed by your doctor or on the prescription. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
• If given to children: Special care is required when giving this medicine to children. Therefore, do not give this medicine to a child without consulting your pediatrician.

What if the dosage of the medicine is increased (overdose)?

If you suspect that you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.

What if I forget to take a medicine?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

Things to be careful about when taking medicine

While taking this medicine, be a little careful about these things for your safety.

• Avoid alcohol: Taking this medication with alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness. It can also interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.
• If you have dry mouth: This is a common side effect of this medication. You can help manage this by chewing sugar-free gum, sucking on sugar-free candy, or drinking small amounts of water frequently. If the problem persists or is severe, tell your doctor.
• Dry eyes and blurred vision: This medication may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses, you may experience some discomfort. Using lubricating drops may help. If the problem persists, tell your doctor or ophthalmologist.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, Carbinoxamine can cause side effects in some people. Some of these can be serious, so it's important to be aware of them.

If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.

How to store medicine safely?

• Keep away from children. This is very important.
• Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius).
• Keep the medicine bottle tightly closed and away from light.
• Do not use expired medications. Dispose of them properly.

Carbinoxamine, antihistamine, allergy, hives, urticaria, rash, Sri Lanka