Ahist
Ahist (chlorcyclizine) is an over-the-counter allergy medication that can temporarily help relieve symptoms of hay fever (seasonal allergies) or other respiratory allergies, but it's not commonly used.
What is Ahist (chlorcyclizine)?
What is Ahist (chlorcyclizine) used for?
Temporary relief of seasonal allergy or other respiratory allergy symptoms, including:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes, nose, or throat
- Watery eyes
How Ahist (chlorcyclizine) works
Ahist (chlorcyclizine) is an antihistamine that works by blocking a chemical called histamine, which is responsible for causing sneezing, itching, and other allergy symptoms.
Drug facts
| Common Brands | Ahist |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Antihistamine |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled medication |
| Generic Status | No lower-cost generic available |
| Availability | Over-the-counter |
Side effects of Ahist (chlorcyclizine)
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Dry eyes or mouth
- Blurry vision
- Difficulty urinating
Less Common Side Effects
- Excitability (hyperactivity), especially in children
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Pros and cons of Ahist (chlorcyclizine)
Pros
- Can be bought without a prescription
- Available for purchase on the manufacturer's (Magna Pharmaceuticals) website
- Tablet can be broken in half
Cons
- Can cause sleepiness
- Might need to take it three times daily
- Can cause excitability (hyperactivity) in some children
Pharmacist tips for Ahist (chlorcyclizine)
- You can take Ahist (chlorcyclizine) with or without food.
- Ahist (chlorcyclizine) can make you feel tired. Don't drive or do anything that requires you to be alert until you know how this medication affects you. Drinking alcohol raises the risk of this side effect, so it's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- Before starting any new medications, ask your provider if you can continue taking Ahist (chlorcyclizine). You might feel more drowsy if you take Ahist (chlorcyclizine) with certain other medications, such as benzodiazepines or muscle relaxants.
- If you're pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant, or planning to breastfeed, ask your provider whether Ahist (chlorcyclizine) is still safe for you.
Risks and warnings for Ahist (chlorcyclizine)
Ahist (chlorcyclizine) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Sleepiness
- Risk factors: Older adults | Drinking alcohol | Taking other medications that cause sleepiness
Ahist (chlorcyclizine) can make you feel very sleepy, which can affect your daily activities and your ability to think clearly. Drinking alcohol or taking other medications, such as benzodiazepines and muscle relaxants, can make this problem worse. Don't drive or operate any machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Worsen other medical conditions
- Risk factors: Breathing problems, such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis | Glaucoma | Prostate problems
Don't take Ahist (chlorcyclizine) if you have any of the risk factors listed above unless your provider said it is safe to do so. Taking Ahist (chlorcyclizine) can worsen your condition(s) and cause serious side effects. Make sure your provider knows about all medical conditions you have or have had in the past before starting Ahist (chlorcyclizine).
Ahist (chlorcyclizine) dosage
| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25mg | 30 tablets | $21.61 | $0.72 |
Typical dosage for Ahist (chlorcyclizine)
- Adults and children 12 years and older: The typical dose is 25 mg by mouth every 6 to 8 hours. The maximum dose is 75 mg in 24 hours, unless directed differently by your provider.
- Children 6 to 11 years old: The typical dose is 12.5 mg by mouth every 6 to 8 hours. The maximum dose is 37.5 mg in 24 hours, unless directed differently by your provider.
- Children under 6 years old: Ask your child's provider.
How much does Ahist (chlorcyclizine) cost?
$21.61
What are alternatives to Ahist (chlorcyclizine)?
Temporary relief of seasonal allergy or other respiratory allergy symptoms, including: