Astem 10mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Severe dizziness
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Severe abdominal pain
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is astem 10mg tablet used for?
This medicine contains astemizole 10 mg, an older antihistamine used for allergies. It is rarely prescribed today because it can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems. Safer antihistamines are now preferred.
- Generic Name: Astemizole
- Manufacturer: Medley Pharmaceuticals
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 astem 10mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा एस्टेमिजोल 10 मिलीग्राम की एक टैबलेट है जिसका उपयोग एलर्जी से होने वाली समस्याओं जैसे छींक आना, नाक बहना, आंखों में खुजली और पानी आना, त्वचा पर खुजली और पित्ती (हाइव्स) को कम करने के लिए किया जाता था। यह एक पुरानी पीढ़ी की एंटीहिस्टामिन दवा है जो शरीर में हिस्टामिन नामक पदार्थ को रोककर एलर्जी के लक्षणों को कम करती है। हालांकि, यह दवा दिल की धड़कन में गंभीर गड़बड़ी पैदा कर सकती है, इसलिए अब इसका उपयोग बहुत कम किया जाता है और कई देशों में इसे प्रतिबंधित कर दिया गया है। इस दवा को केवल डॉक्टर की सलाह पर ही लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, मुंह सूखना, नींद आना, थकान, जी मिचलाना और पेट में असहजता शामिल हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में दिल की धड़कन अनियमित होना, बेहोशी, चक्कर आना और जानलेवा हृदय ताल विकार (टोर्सेड्स डी पॉइंट्स) शामिल हैं। अगर आपको दिल की धड़कन तेज या अनियमित महसूस हो, बेहोशी आए या गंभीर चक्कर आए, तो तुरंत आपातकालीन चिकित्सा सहायता लें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें और अपनी मर्जी से मात्रा न बढ़ाएं। इस दवा के साथ अंगूर का जूस, कीटोकोनाज़ोल, इट्राकोनाज़ोल, एरिथ्रोमाइसिन, क्लेरिथ्रोमाइसिन जैसी दवाएं न लें क्योंकि इनसे दिल की धड़कन में गंभीर समस्या हो सकती है। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं, सप्लीमेंट्स और हर्बल उत्पादों के बारे में बताएं। अगर आपको दिल की बीमारी, पोटैशियम या मैग्नीशियम की कमी, या लीवर की बीमारी है तो यह दवा न लें। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक वाहन न चलाएं। अगर दिल की धड़कन अनियमित हो, बेहोशी आए या गंभीर चक्कर आए, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
💊 astem 10mg tablet Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"This medicine was used to relieve sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and nasal congestion caused by seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Historical use; largely replaced by safer antihistamines"},{"condition":"Chronic idiopathic urticaria","description":"This medicine was used to reduce itching and hives in people with chronic urticaria.","evidence":"Historical use; limited by cardiac safety concerns"},{"condition":"Other allergic skin conditions","description":"This medicine was sometimes used for itching associated with allergic dermatitis, but safer options are now preferred.","evidence":"Limited and largely outdated"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Not established from the available information.","description":"No reliable off-label uses are established for this medicine because of its serious cardiac risks.","evidence":"Not established from the available information."}]
Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis
Also treats: Chronic idiopathic urticaria, Allergic skin conditions
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Astemizole |
| Brand Name | Astem 10mg Tablet |
| Manufacturer | Medley Pharmaceuticals |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | PAIN ANALGESICS |
| Action Class | H1 Antihistaminics (second Generation) |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Keep in the original container. |
| Shelf Life | Not established from the available information. Check the expiry date on the package. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. This medicine is not recommended in current WHO guidelines because safer antihistamines are available. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. Current Indian guidelines generally recommend safer second-generation antihistamines instead of this medicine. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works as a selective histamine H1 receptor antagonist. It binds to H1 receptors on cells in the skin, nose, and blood vessels, preventing histamine released during allergic reactions from causing symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and vasodilation. Unlike older antihistamines, it was designed to cause less sedation because it crosses the blood-brain barrier to a lesser extent. However, this medicine also blocks cardiac potassium channels, which can delay repolarization and prolong the QT interval, leading to serious heart rhythm disturbances.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take astem 10mg tablet
Strength: Astemizole 10 mg immediate-release tablet for oral use.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The adult dose of this medicine is determined by a qualified clinician based on the specific allergic condition being treated, the patient's age, weight, heart health, kidney function, and liver function. This medicine is rarely prescribed today because of serious cardiac risks. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Never self-medicate or adjust the dose without medical advice. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially heart rhythm problems and drowsiness. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on age, heart health, kidney function, and liver function. Close monitoring is recommended if this medicine is prescribed. |
| Renal Impairment | Dose adjustment may be needed in people with kidney disease. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal function. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you have kidney problems. |
| Hepatic Impairment | This medicine is metabolized in the liver, and liver disease can increase its blood levels and toxicity risk. It should be avoided in severe liver disease. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on hepatic function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | Not established from the available information. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of astem 10mg tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Ketoconazole | Major | |
| Erythromycin | Major | |
| Amiodarone | Major | |
| Grapefruit juice | Major | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Fluoxetine | Moderate | |
| Alcohol | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, clarithromycin
- Drugs that prolong QT interval (e.g., amiodarone, sotalol, quinidine, some antipsychotics)
- Grapefruit juice
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Cimetidine
- Fluoxetine, paroxetine, and other CYP3A4 inhibitors
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of heart rhythm disturbances. Combining alcohol with this medicine may also worsen fatigue and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to astemizole or any component of this medicine","Known QT prolongation or history of ventricular arrhythmias","Low potassium or magnesium levels","Severe liver disease","Use with medicines that inhibit CYP3A4 or prolong the QT interval","Pregnancy and breastfeeding unless specifically directed by a specialist","Children unless specifically prescribed by a specialist"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine can cause serious heart rhythm problems. It should only be used under close medical supervision.","Avoid grapefruit juice and medicines that interact with this medicine.","Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.","Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you take.","Do not increase the dose without your doctor's approval.","Seek immediate medical help if you experience palpitations, fainting, or severe dizziness.","This medicine is not recommended for people with heart, liver, or electrolyte problems."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Not established from the available information. This medicine is not recommended during breastfeeding because it may pass into breast milk and cause serious effects in the infant. Consult your doctor for safer alternatives.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe heart rhythm disturbances, including QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical care immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include ECG monitoring, correction of electrolyte imbalances, and use of appropriate antiarrhythmic measures. Do not try to treat overdose at home.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember if less than half the dosing interval has passed. If more than half the dosing interval has passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Consult your doctor if you are unsure.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor and never increase the dose on your own. Avoid taking it with grapefruit juice, ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, clarithromycin, or other medicines that affect liver enzymes or heart rhythm. Tell your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you use before starting this medicine. Do not use this medicine if you have a heart rhythm problem, low potassium or magnesium, or liver disease. Avoid alcohol because it can increase drowsiness and heart-related risks. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. If you miss a dose, follow your doctor's instructions and do not double the dose. Store this medicine at room temperature away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children. If you experience palpitations, fainting, or severe dizziness, stop the medicine and seek emergency help immediately.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients are at higher risk of heart rhythm problems, drowsiness, and falls while taking this medicine. It should be avoided in the elderly unless specifically prescribed by a specialist with close monitoring.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine is not recommended for women planning pregnancy. Consult your doctor to switch to a safer antihistamine before trying to conceive.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
This medicine may increase the risk of heart rhythm problems during and after surgery. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist if you are taking this medicine. It is usually stopped before surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may interact with medicines used during dental procedures and can affect heart rhythm. Your dentist may consult your doctor before proceeding.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise if you feel dizzy, drowsy, or have palpitations while taking this medicine. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program if you have heart problems.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. If you experience palpitations or fainting, stop working and seek medical help immediately.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Stop this medicine and seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, fainting, severe dizziness, or signs of an allergic reaction. Do not stop or change your dose without consulting your doctor, as they will advise on safer alternatives.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended because of the risk of serious heart rhythm problems, including QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. It may also rarely cause liver injury. Regular monitoring of heart rhythm, electrolytes, and liver function may be needed if long-term use is unavoidable. Safer antihistamines should be used instead whenever possible.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
A safer second-generation antihistamine for allergic rhinitis and urticaria.
Evidence: Well-establishedA safer second-generation antihistamine for allergic conditions.
Evidence: Well-establishedA safer second-generation antihistamine with minimal cardiac risk.
Evidence: Well-establishedReducing exposure to allergens can help control symptoms without medicine.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
Not established from the available information. This medicine is not known to interact with vaccines, but consult your doctor before vaccination if you are taking it.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid temperature extremes. Store it at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. If you are crossing time zones, consult your doctor about dose timing. Check local customs regulations before carrying this medicine internationally, as it may be restricted or banned in some countries.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine may start relieving allergy symptoms within 1 to 2 hours, but exact onset data are not established.
A: This medicine carries a serious risk of heart rhythm problems and is rarely prescribed today. Safer antihistamines are preferred.
A: No, grapefruit juice can increase the levels of this medicine and raise the risk of dangerous heart rhythms.
A: Stop the medicine and seek emergency medical care immediately.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for astem 10mg tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
alestol 10mg tabletIndico Pharmaceuticals ₹12.00 32.2% CHEAPER
-
alerzole 10mg tabletThemis Medicare Ltd ₹12.51 29.3% CHEAPER
-
acipax 10mg tabletPfizer Ltd ₹12.53 29.2% CHEAPER
-
astelong 10mg tabletTorrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹21.10 19.2% COSTLIER
-
stemiz 10mg tabletZydus Cadila ₹22.45 26.8% COSTLIER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Astemizole is a safe everyday allergy medicine.
Fact: Astemizole can cause serious heart rhythm problems and is not recommended for routine use. - Myth: Astemizole is safe to take with any other medicine.
Fact: Astemizole interacts dangerously with many medicines, including ketoconazole, erythromycin, and grapefruit juice. - Myth: Astemizole is safe during pregnancy.
Fact: Astemizole is not recommended during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by a specialist.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Astemizole 10 mg tablet (generic)
Brand Alternatives
- Astem 10mg tablet