Stemiz 5mg Suspension - Astemizole (5mg) medicine

Acemiz Plus 5mg Suspension: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Zydus Cadila 📦 bottle of 30 ml Suspension 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 24, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Historical use; limited due to safety concerns.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 24, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
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
  • Dizziness or fainting
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Severe abdominal pain

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is Stemiz 5mg Suspension used for?

This medicine is an antihistamine used for allergies but is rarely used today because it can cause dangerous heart rhythm problems. It should only be taken under strict medical supervision.

  • Generic Name: Astemizole (5mg)
  • Manufacturer: Zydus Cadila
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 Stemiz 5mg Suspension के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना, आंखों में खुजली और त्वचा पर खुजली को कम करने के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती थी। यह एस्टेमिज़ोल नामक एंटीहिस्टामिन है, जो शरीर में हिस्टामिन के प्रभाव को रोकता है। हालांकि, यह दवा दिल की धड़कन में गंभीर समस्या पैदा कर सकती है, इसलिए अब इसका उपयोग बहुत कम किया जाता है। इसे केवल डॉक्टर की सलाह पर ही लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, मुंह सूखना, सिरदर्द, जी मिचलाना और पेट में असहजता शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में दिल की धड़कन अनियमित होना, बेहोशी और गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हो सकती है। अगर आपको दिल की धड़कन तेज या अनियमित महसूस हो, चक्कर आएं या बेहोशी हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: यह दवा केवल डॉक्टर की देखरेख में ही लें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक न लें। शराब और नींद लाने वाली दवाओं से बचें। अपने डॉक्टर को अपनी सभी दवाओं के बारे में बताएं। अगर आपको दिल की बीमारी, लीवर की बीमारी या इलेक्ट्रोलाइट असंतुलन है, तो यह दवा न लें। दिल की धड़कन में बदलाव, चक्कर या बेहोशी होने पर तुरंत आपातकालीन चिकित्सा सहायता लें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 Stemiz 5mg Suspension Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes caused by seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Historical use; now limited due to safety concerns"},{"condition":"Chronic urticaria","description":"Reduces itching and hives associated with chronic urticaria.","evidence":"Historical use; now limited due to safety concerns"},{"condition":"Allergic conjunctivitis","description":"Helps reduce eye itching and redness associated with allergic conjunctivitis.","evidence":"Historical use; now limited due to safety concerns"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Not established from the available information.","description":"Not established from the available information.","evidence":"Not established from the available information."}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Chronic urticaria, Allergic conjunctivitis

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Astemizole (5mg)
Brand NameStemiz 5mg Suspension
ManufacturerZydus Cadila
Packaging / Formbottle of 30 ml Suspension (Allopathy)
Therapeutic Class
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep the container tightly closed.
Shelf LifeNot established from the available information. Refer to the product label.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Use this medicine only if prescribed by a doctor who is aware of its cardiac risks.
2
Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
3
Avoid alcohol and other sedating medicines while taking this medicine.
4
Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially antibiotics and antifungals.
5
Report any palpitations, dizziness, or fainting immediately.
6
Do not use this medicine if you have heart, liver, or electrolyte problems.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Sneezing
This medicine is used for allergic sneezing.
Likely Use
✅
Runny nose
This medicine helps reduce runny nose due to allergies.
Likely Use
✅
Itchy eyes
This medicine relieves allergic eye itching.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionNot established from the available information.
DistributionNot established from the available information.
Protein BindingNot established from the available information.
MetabolismNot established from the available information.
Half-LifeNot established from the available information.
ExcretionNot established from the available information.
BioavailabilityNot established from the available information.
Onset of ActionNot established from the available information.
Peak Plasma TimeNot established from the available information.
Duration of ActionNot established from the available information.

How It Works

Astemizole is a second-generation antihistamine that works by selectively blocking histamine H1 receptors. By binding to these receptors, it prevents histamine from triggering allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and vasodilation. Unlike older antihistamines, it was designed to cause less sedation, but it can also block potassium channels in the heart, leading to QT prolongation and serious arrhythmias.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: This medicine binds to histamine H1 receptors on cells, preventing histamine from activating them.
2
Reduction of allergic symptoms: By blocking H1 receptors, it reduces sneezing, itching, runny nose, and other allergic responses.
3
Cardiac potassium channel blockade: This medicine can block potassium channels in the heart, which may delay repolarization and prolong the QT interval.
4
Risk of arrhythmia: QT prolongation can lead to torsades de pointes, a dangerous ventricular arrhythmia, especially at high doses or with interacting drugs.

💡 How to Take Stemiz 5mg Suspension

Strength: Suspension, 5 mg

1Shake the suspension well before each use.
2Measure the dose accurately using the provided measuring cup or syringe.
3Take orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor.
4Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
5Wash the measuring device after each use.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is individualized by a qualified clinician based on the condition being treated and the patient's overall health. It is typically taken once daily, but the exact dose and frequency must be determined by a doctor. Do not self-medicate. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially cardiac effects. Use with caution and under medical supervision.
Renal ImpairmentNot established from the available information. Consult your doctor for dose adjustment.
Hepatic ImpairmentNot established from the available information. Use with caution in liver disease. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseNot established from the available information. Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels and risk of side effects.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of Stemiz 5mg Suspension

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common)
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Dry mouth (Common)
Sip water or chew sugar-free gum. Consult doctor if persistent.
Headache (Common)
Usually resolves on its own. Consult doctor if severe or persistent.
Nausea (Common)
Take with food if it upsets your stomach. Consult doctor if persistent.
Stomach discomfort (Common)
Take with meals. Consult doctor if it continues.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias (Rare)
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience palpitations, dizziness, or fainting.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare)
Seek emergency care if you have swelling of face, lips, throat, or difficulty breathing.
Liver toxicity (Rare)
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue to your doctor immediately.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Torsades de pointes
This is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately.
Cardiac arrest
Seek emergency medical help immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Erythromycin Major
Ketoconazole Major
Quinidine Major
Fluoxetine Major
Grapefruit juice Moderate
Cimetidine Moderate
Alcohol Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin, clarithromycin)
  • Azole antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
  • Antiarrhythmics (e.g., quinidine, amiodarone)
  • Antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Grapefruit juice
  • Cimetidine

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by this medicine. It is best to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Known hypersensitivity to astemizole","Heart disease, including QT prolongation","Liver disease","Electrolyte imbalances (low potassium or magnesium)","Concurrent use with macrolide antibiotics, azole antifungals, or antiarrhythmics"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine can cause serious heart rhythm problems. Use only under medical supervision.","Do not exceed the prescribed dose.","Avoid alcohol and other sedating medicines.","Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take.","Do not use if you have heart, liver, or electrolyte problems.","Report palpitations, dizziness, or fainting immediately."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause serious heart rhythm problems. Seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include ECG monitoring and management of arrhythmias.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

This medicine should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified clinician. Do not exceed the prescribed dose. Avoid alcohol and other sedating medicines because they can increase drowsiness. Inform your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially antibiotics, antifungals, and heart medicines, as interactions can be dangerous. Do not use this medicine if you have heart disease, liver disease, or electrolyte imbalances. If you experience palpitations, dizziness, or fainting, stop the medicine and seek emergency care. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store as directed on the label.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the cardiac effects of this medicine. Use with caution and under close medical supervision.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor before resuming this medicine after surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Not established from the available information. Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid known allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander.
🥗
Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
😴
Use air purifiers at home.
💧
Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from allergens.
🧘
Shower after outdoor activities to remove pollen.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Stay well hydrated.
Avoid grapefruit juice.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects like palpitations, dizziness, or fainting, stop the medicine and seek immediate medical attention.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended due to the risk of serious cardiac arrhythmias. Regular monitoring of heart rhythm and electrolytes may be required if used for prolonged periods. Consult your doctor for alternative treatments.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Allergen avoidance

Avoiding allergens can reduce the need for medicines.

Evidence: Well-established
Saline nasal rinses

Can help relieve nasal congestion and allergy symptoms.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

Not established from the available information. Consult your doctor.

📦 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

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about dose timing. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergies
She was prescribed this medicine for allergic rhinitis. After a few days, she experienced palpitations and dizziness. She stopped the medicine and consulted her doctor, who switched her to a safer antihistamine. She recovered fully.
💡 Lesson: Always report unusual symptoms like palpitations or dizziness to your doctor immediately.
👤 A 50-year-old man with chronic urticaria
He took this medicine without informing his doctor about his heart condition. He developed severe arrhythmia and required emergency treatment. He was later advised to avoid this medicine and use safer alternatives.
💡 Lesson: Never self-medicate with this medicine, especially if you have heart disease.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: The onset of action is not established from available information. Consult your doctor.

Q: Is this medicine safe?

A: This medicine can cause serious heart rhythm problems and is rarely used today. It should only be taken under medical supervision.

Q: Can I take this medicine with other allergy medicines?

A: Do not take with other antihistamines without consulting your doctor, as it may increase side effects.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my heart?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for Stemiz 5mg Suspension

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is a safe everyday antihistamine.
    Fact: This medicine can cause serious heart rhythm problems and is not recommended for routine use.
  • Myth: You can take this medicine without a prescription.
    Fact: This medicine requires a prescription and should only be used under medical supervision.

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Acemiz Plus 5mg Suspension","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","cardiac_risk":"High","status":"Withdrawn/restricted in many countries"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low to moderate","cardiac_risk":"Low","status":"Widely used"},{"medicine":"Loratadine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","cardiac_risk":"Low","status":"Widely used"}]

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