Do you also sneeze often? Do you have a runny nose and runny nose all day? Or do your eyes get red and itchy all the time? These are often the symptoms of an allergy that we all know. Some allergies are caused by our body's hypersensitivity to things like pollen from certain plants. Today, we are talking about a medicine that is given to treat such a special allergy condition, which is dissolved under the tongue.
What is this? What exactly does this medicine do?
Simply put, this is also a medicine for allergies. In medical terms, its name is Short Ragweed Pollen Allergen Extract . In the market, this medicine can be seen under the name `(RAGWITEK)`.
"Ragweed" is a type of plant found in foreign countries. The pollen from this plant causes severe allergies in some people. So what this medicine does is give you a pill made from a very small amount of the pollen that causes the allergy. When you hold it under your tongue, the essence is slowly absorbed into your body. Over time, your body's immune system gets used to the pollen and reduces the severe reaction (allergy) to it. That is, it treats the cause of the allergy rather than suppressing the symptoms of the allergy.
Things you should tell your doctor before taking medication
Before starting this medication, it is extremely important to discuss your complete health history with your doctor. Be sure to mention any of the following conditions:
| Health condition or history | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | These conditions may conflict with medications given for severe allergies. |
| Lung diseases such as asthma | This medicine is not suitable for people with uncontrolled asthma. |
| A condition called Eosinophilic Esophagitis | This is an allergic condition related to the digestive tract and requires special care. |
| If you have previously had difficulty breathing due to swelling of the face, lips, or tongue | This shows that you are at higher risk of developing severe allergies. |
| If you are currently taking other allergy shots | Care should be taken when combining two treatments. |
| If you have mouth sores, gum recession, or infections | It can affect the way the medicine is absorbed by the body. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | In these cases, it is imperative to seek medical advice before using any medication. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
This is not a pill that you swallow with water like a regular pill. So follow these steps exactly.
1. Carefully open the blister pack containing the medication with well-dried hands .
2. If the tablet breaks or crumbles when you take it out, do not use it . Throw away the tablet and get a new one.
3. Immediately place the tablet under your tongue .
4. Place it under your tongue and let it dissolve for at least a minute . Do not talk or swallow during this time.
5. After a minute, you can swallow the saliva.
6. Do not eat or drink anything for at least 5 minutes after taking the pill.
7. After touching the pill, wash your hands thoroughly with soap.
Remember, this is not a pill to be swallowed. It is meant to be placed under the tongue and allowed to dissolve. The first pill is taken in front of the doctor. That way, if any problems arise, they can be managed right there.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Never take a double dose. If you miss more than one dose, talk to your doctor before starting again.
What if I take too much medicine? (Overdosage)
If you think you have taken too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What are the possible side effects of taking the medicine?
As with any medication, there is a possibility of side effects. Some of these are serious, some are common.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor or ETU immediately | |
|---|---|
| Signs of a severe allergic reaction: skin rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. | Difficulty breathing: Feeling of tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing. |
| Other serious symptoms: chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, severe coughing, difficulty swallowing, vomiting. | Dizziness (vertigo), flushing. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Numbness, pain, or itching in the mouth or tongue. | Sore or itchy throat. |
| Stomach ache or upset stomach. | Itchy ears. |
Severe Allergies (Anaphylaxis) and Epinephrine Injection
The most rare but serious side effect of taking this medicine is a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). This is a life-threatening emergency. For this reason, your doctor will prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen). You should always carry it with you. Also, ask your doctor or a trained nurse how to use it.
Take-Home Message
- This is a special medicine that is placed under the tongue and dissolved for allergies. It treats the cause of the allergy.
- It is imperative that you tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions before starting the medication.
- Place the tablet under your tongue and let it dissolve for one minute, then refrain from eating or drinking for 5 minutes.
- Because there is a small risk of a severe allergic reaction, always carry the epinephrine auto-injector prescribed by your doctor. Know exactly how to use it.
- If you experience severe side effects such as facial swelling or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- This medicine is for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.
- If you have any further questions about this medication, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.
💬 අදහස් (0)
තවමත් කිසිදු අදහසක් පළ කර නොමැත. ඔබේ අදහස පළමු වරට මෙහි එක් කරන්න.
ඔබේ අදහස එක් කරන්න