What are the primary uses of Celestamine. How does Celestamine work in the body. What are the common side effects of Celestamine. Is Celestamine safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. How should Celestamine be taken for optimal effectiveness.

Understanding Celestamine: Composition and Mechanism of Action

Celestamine is a combination medication containing two active ingredients: betamethasone and dexchlorpheniramine maleate. This unique formulation makes it a powerful tool in treating various allergic and inflammatory conditions.

Betamethasone: The Glucocorticoid Component

Betamethasone is a synthetic glucocorticoid with potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Its mechanism of action involves:

• Binding to specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors
• Modifying gene expression to induce anti-inflammatory proteins
• Reducing the synthesis of inflammatory mediators
• Suppressing autoimmune reactions and chronic inflammation

Dexchlorpheniramine: The Antihistamine Component

Dexchlorpheniramine is a first-generation antihistamine that works by:

• Competitively antagonizing H1 receptors
• Inhibiting the actions of histamine on bronchial smooth muscle, capillaries, and gastrointestinal smooth muscle
• Preventing the effects of endogenous histamine release

This dual-action approach makes Celestamine particularly effective in managing allergic reactions and inflammatory conditions.

Primary Uses and Indications for Celestamine

Celestamine is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypersensitivity reactions and various inflammatory conditions. Its main indications include:

1. Allergic rhinitis
2. Urticaria (hives)
3. Atopic dermatitis
4. Allergic conjunctivitis
5. Asthma (as an adjunct therapy)
6. Angioedema
7. Certain autoimmune disorders

Is Celestamine effective for all types of allergies. While Celestamine is highly effective for many allergic conditions, it may not be suitable for all types of allergies. It’s particularly useful for conditions involving both inflammation and histamine release. However, for some allergies, especially food allergies or severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), other treatments may be more appropriate.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

As with any medication, Celestamine can cause side effects. These may vary in severity and frequency among individuals.

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea
• Increased appetite
• Weight gain

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

• Mood changes or psychiatric disturbances
• Increased blood pressure
• Fluid retention
• Muscle weakness
• Osteoporosis (with long-term use)
• Adrenal suppression
• Increased susceptibility to infections

Can Celestamine cause long-term side effects. With prolonged use, especially at high doses, Celestamine may potentially lead to long-term side effects such as osteoporosis, adrenal suppression, and increased risk of infections. It’s crucial to use the medication under close medical supervision and for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms.

Celestamine in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

The use of Celestamine during pregnancy and breastfeeding requires careful consideration and should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Pregnancy

Celestamine is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. The betamethasone component may potentially increase the risk of cleft palate in developing fetuses. However, in some cases, the benefits may outweigh the risks if the condition being treated is severe.

Breastfeeding

Caution is advised when using Celestamine while breastfeeding. Both active ingredients can pass into breast milk, potentially affecting the nursing infant. Possible effects include drowsiness, irritability, or reduced milk production in the mother.

Are there any safer alternatives to Celestamine during pregnancy or breastfeeding. For some allergic conditions, safer alternatives such as certain second-generation antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids may be considered. However, the choice of treatment should always be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, weighing the potential risks and benefits for both mother and child.

Dosage and Administration Guidelines

The dosage of Celestamine can vary depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual patient factors. It’s crucial to follow the prescribing physician’s instructions carefully.

Typical Dosage Forms

• Tablets
• Syrup

General Dosage Guidelines for Adults

• Initial dose: 1-2 tablets or 5-10 ml of syrup, taken twice daily
• Maintenance dose: May be adjusted based on response and tolerability
• Maximum daily dose: Usually not exceeding 4 tablets or 20 ml of syrup

How should Celestamine be taken for optimal effectiveness. For best results, Celestamine should be taken at the same times each day, preferably with food to minimize stomach upset. It’s important not to exceed the prescribed dose and to complete the full course of treatment, even if symptoms improve quickly.

Drug Interactions and Precautions

Celestamine can interact with various medications and substances, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.

Common Drug Interactions

• Other corticosteroids
• Central nervous system depressants (including alcohol)
• Certain antifungal medications
• Some antibiotics
• Anticoagulants
• Drugs metabolized by CYP3A4 enzymes

Precautions

Special caution is needed when using Celestamine in patients with:

• Liver or kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Glaucoma
• Hypertension
• Osteoporosis
• History of psychiatric disorders
• Peptic ulcer disease

Can Celestamine be used safely in elderly patients. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Celestamine, particularly the antihistamine component. They may experience increased drowsiness, confusion, or risk of falls. Dosage adjustments and close monitoring are often necessary for this population.

Comparison with Other Allergy Medications

Celestamine differs from many other allergy medications due to its unique combination of a corticosteroid and an antihistamine. This makes it particularly effective for conditions where both inflammation and histamine-mediated symptoms are present.

Advantages of Celestamine

• Dual action against inflammation and allergic symptoms
• Rapid onset of action
• Effective for a wide range of allergic and inflammatory conditions

Disadvantages Compared to Other Medications

• More potential for side effects, especially with long-term use
• Not suitable for all types of allergies
• May require more careful monitoring than single-ingredient allergy medications

How does Celestamine compare to over-the-counter allergy medications. Celestamine is generally more potent than most over-the-counter allergy medications due to its corticosteroid component. It may provide more comprehensive relief for severe or persistent allergic symptoms. However, it also carries a higher risk of side effects and requires a prescription, making it less suitable for mild, intermittent allergies that can be managed with OTC options.

Long-term Use and Discontinuation

While Celestamine can be highly effective for managing allergic and inflammatory conditions, long-term use requires careful consideration and medical supervision.

Concerns with Long-term Use

• Increased risk of systemic side effects from the corticosteroid component
• Potential for adrenal suppression
• Risk of developing tolerance to the antihistamine effect
• Possible masking of underlying conditions

Discontinuation Process

Abrupt discontinuation of Celestamine, especially after long-term use, can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a rebound of the underlying condition. A gradual tapering of the dose is often recommended, under medical supervision.

What are the signs that Celestamine should be discontinued or the dose adjusted. Signs that may indicate a need for dose adjustment or discontinuation include:

• Persistent or severe side effects
• Inadequate symptom control
• Development of new health issues potentially related to the medication
• Significant improvement in the underlying condition

Regular follow-ups with the prescribing physician are essential to assess the ongoing need for Celestamine and to make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Clemastine (Tavist) – Side Effects, Interactions, Uses, Dosage, Warnings

uses

What is Clemastine (Tavist) used for?

• Allergic Reaction
• Allergic Rhinitis
• Urticaria
• Allergic Urticaria
• Physical Urticaria

warnings

What is the most important information I should know about Clemastine (Tavist)?

You should not use clemastine if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing disorder;
• an ulcer or obstruction in the stomach;
• glaucoma; or
• an enlarged prostate, urination problems.

This medicine is not expected to cause harm to an unborn baby. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant.

Clemastine may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Antihistamines may also slow breast milk production. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are breast-feeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 12 without medical advice.

User Reviews & Rating

Overall rating for Clemastine (Tavist)

5.0

out of  5

Side Effects

Easy to Use

Effectiveness

Read Clemastine (Tavist) Reviews

Side Effects

What are the side effects of Clemastine (Tavist)?

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Side effects may be more likely in older adults.

Common side effects may include:

• drowsiness;
• blurred vision; or
• feeling restless or excited (especially in children).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Can I take Clemastine (Tavist) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

B

No evidence of risk in humans

Based on FDA pregnancy categories

This medicine is not expected to cause harm to an unborn baby. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant.

Clemastine may pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Antihistamines may also slow breast milk production. Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are breast-feeding.

Interactions

What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Clemastine (Tavist)?

This medicine may cause blurred vision and may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert and able to see clearly.

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking clemastine.

Dosage Guidelines & Tips

How to take Clemastine (Tavist)?

Use Clemastine (Tavist) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

What should I do if I missed a dose of Clemastine (Tavist)?

Since clemastine is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Overdose Signs

What happens if I overdose on Clemastine (Tavist)?

If you think you or someone else may have overdosed on: Clemastine (Tavist),  call your doctor or the Poison Control center

(800) 222-1222

If someone collapses or isn’t breathing after taking Clemastine (Tavist), call 911

911

Images

93 308

Color: white

Shape: round

Imprint: 93 308

L282

Color: white

Shape: capsule

Imprint: L282

93 308

Color: white

Shape: round

Form: film coated

Imprint: 93 308

Celestamine – Uses, Doses, Side Effects – Betamethasone

Celestamine belongs to the steroid family drugs and it contains Betamethasone and dexchlorpheniramine maleate as active ingredients.  Celestamine (Betamethasone/dexchlorpheniramine) is commonly used to treat hypersensitivity or allergic reactions and inflammatory conditions.

Mechanism of action

Betamethasone which is an active ingredient of Celestamine is a synthetic glucocorticoid (steroids) with metabolic, immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory activities. Betamethasone binds to a specific intracellular glucocorticoid receptors and subsequently binds to DNA to modify gene expression which induced the synthesis of certain anti-inflammatory proteins while the synthesis of some inflammatory mediators is reduced. Therefore Betamethasone causes overall reduction in autoimmune reactions and chronic inflammation, thus reduces natural immune response of the body.

Dexchlorpheniramine is an alkylamine, and first-generation histamine receptor antagonist with anti-allergic activity. Dexchlorpheniramine competitively antagonises h2 receptors, thereby inhibiting the actions of histamine on h2 Histamine receptors on bronchial smooth muscle, capillaries and gastrointestinal smooth muscle. The antagonistic action of Dexchlorpheniramine inhibits the actions of endogenous histamine, thereby preventing histamine-induced bronchoconstriction, vasodilation, increased capillary permeability, and GI smooth muscle spasms, therefore used to treat allergic conditions such as hay fever or urticaria. 

We’ve discussed the pharmacology of most common & essential drugs, & their Mechanism of actions, contraindications, cautions, side effects, use in pregnancy, use in breast feeding, adult dose, pediatric dose in our Pharmacology Made Easy eBook. 

Betamethasone is used as an ingredient of Celestamine in some countries such as : 

• • Brazil
  • Chile
  • Hong Kong
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • Paraguay
  • Philippines
  • South Africa
  • Venezuela

Dexchlorpheniramine is used as an ingredient of Celestamine in Hong Kong.

Indications / Diseases where Celestamine is used:

• Perennial allergic rhinitis
• Severe bronchial asthma
• Serum sickness
• Hay fever (pollenosis)
• Drug reactions
• Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
• Contact dermatitis
• Inflammatory ocular disorders
  • Iridocyclitis
  • Uveitis
  • Keratitis
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Non-granulomatous iritis
  • Chorioretinitis and
  • Choroiditis

Celestamine Dosage

Dose of Celestamine depends on the patient’s response to the drug and the severity of the illness.

• In the case, the conditions are better; the dosage should be reduced little by little until it is reduced to a minimum.
• After reaching the lowest dose, it should be suspended slowly.
• For people older than 12 years, an initial dose of 1 or 2 tablets (1 or 2 tablespoons) is prescribed for four times a day.
• It is best to take the dose after a filling meal or at bedtime.
• Do not increase the dose of Celestamine Ns in more than eight tablets or 8 tablespoons in the case of Celestamine Ns syrup.
• For children between 6 and 12 years, a dose of ½ tablet (1/2 tablespoon) should be administered three times a day. The dose should not exceed more than 4 tablets or 4 tablespoons in the case of syrup.
• For children between 2 and 6 years old, a dose of ¼ or ½ tablespoon should be administered three times a day. The general dosage should not be more than two tablespoons.

Summary of Celestamine dosage :

Special precautions

If celestamine contains Betamathasone :

As it contains Betamethasone as an active ingredient, adjustments of dosages in both adults and children may be required with remission or exacerbation of the clinical condition. Also, we should consider each patient’s individual response to therapy and exposure of the patient to psychological or physical stress such as injury, surgery or serious infection.

Betamethasone is a Corticosteroid, so we should monitor the patient for at least up to one year following the discontinuation of long-term or high-dose corticosteroid therapy.

Since complications of glucocorticoid therapy are dependent on duration and dosage of treatment, doctor should make the decision of risk or benefit for with each patient and their associated comorbidities.

Since high dose or long-term corticosteroid therapy is associated with many side effects like osteoporosis (fragile bones), hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes etc. the lowest possible dose of corticosteroid should be used to control the condition under treatment. A gradual reduction of dosage is recommended.

When the drugs are used in patients who have other comorbidities like hypothyroidism and cirrhosis, adverse effects of corticosteroids are increased.

Patients who take corticosteroids should be cautious if it’s used in patients with ocular herpes simplex because of possible risk of corneal perforation.

Psychological derangements also reported with corticosteroid therapy and those who already have emotional instability or psychotic tendencies may be aggravated by corticosteroid drugs like betamethasone/celestamine preparations.

These drugs should be used with caution conditions such as diverticulitis, fresh intestinal anastomoses, nonspecific ulcerative colitis, if there is a possible impending perforation, other pyogenic infection, abscess, or active or latent peptic ulcer disease, myasthenia gravis, osteoporosis, hypertension and renal insufficiency.

Since Corticosteroids are immunosuppressive agents, they may mask some signs of ongoing infection, and new infections may also appear during use. When corticosteroids are used, decreased resistance and inability to localize infection may occur.

Prolonged use of corticosteroid may lead to glaucoma with possible damage to the optic nerves, posterior subcapsular cataracts (mainly in children) and may increase the chance of secondary ocular infections due to fungi or viruses.

Elevation of blood pressure, retention of salt and water, and increased excretion of potassium which lead to hypokalemic complications may also occur with average and large doses of corticosteroids.

However, these side effects are less likely to occur when synthetic derivatives of corticosteroids are used except when used in large doses.

Supplementation of potassium and restriction of Dietary salt may be considered for these patients. All corticosteroids will increase excretion of calcium. So, it’s advised to take calcium supplements or calcium rich foods to prevent complications that can occur with long term calcium deficiency.

Since corticosteroids have immunosuppressive actions, patients should never be vaccinated for small pox. Other immunization procedures also should never be undertaken in patients who receive treatments with corticosteroids like betamethasone, celestamine etc., especially high doses, because of lack of antibody response and possible risk of neurological complications.

Patients who are on treatment with immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids should be warned and they should avoid exposure to chicken pox or measles. If exposed, they should immediately obtain medical advice as it might end up in serious complications.  This is particularly important in children, elderly patients and patients who are already on immunosuppressive state like diabetes mellitus.

Treatment with Corticosteroid is in active tuberculosis should be restricted to those patients with disseminated or fulminating tuberculosis in which the corticosteroid is used in conjunction with an appropriate antituberculous regimen.

If corticosteroids are used in patients with latent tuberculosis, close monitoring is necessary since reactivation of the disease may occur due to suppression of immune system. Patients should receive chemoprophylaxis during prolonged corticosteroid therapy.

Growth and development of children who receive corticosteroid therapy for a prolonged period should be assessed carefully, since administration of corticosteroid can disturb the growth rates and inhibit the production of endogenous corticosteroids in these patients.

Celestamine should not be used in newborn and premature infants.

Corticosteroid therapy may alter the motility and number of spermatozoa.

If Celestamine contains Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate :

Celestamine products containing Betamethasone/Dexchlorphenamine Maleate should be used with caution in patients with pyloroduodenal obstruction, peptic ulcer disease, narrow angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy or bladder neck obstruction, cardiovascular disease including hypertension, in those with increased intraocular pressure or hyperthyroidism.

Patients should be warned about involving in activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving vehicles or operating machines etc.

Dexchlorpheniramine is a first-generation histamine receptor antagonist which crosses the blood brain barrier and causes dizziness, sedation, and hypotension in patients over 60 years of age.

Side effects of Celestamine 

• Nausea and vomiting are common side effects.  
• Increased sweating
• It can produce a sedative effect in which a person is always sleepy or drowsy.
• In some people, an alteration in electrolyte and fluid balance is also seen.
• Muscle problems such as loss of muscle mass, weakness of muscle  and rupture of the tendon are common. 
• Sometimes depression, mood swings and some other psychological problems are also seen in Celestamine users.
• In cases of women, menstrual irregularity is also common
• Some people also complain of vertigo and headache.
• There are also complains  distension of the abdomen.
• There are also cases of Peptic ulcer, constipation and irritable bowel syndrome can occur.
• Delayed wound healing is also seen.
• Skin discoloration, thinning of the skin are some of the common complains of Celestamine.

Overdosage

Celestamine is a combination of Betamethasone/Dexchlorphenamine Maleate. So both components are responsible for the potential toxicities.  

Overdosage reactions with Dexchlorphenamine Maleate may vary from depression of central nervous system such as sedation, respiratory depression, reduced mental alertness, cardiovascular collapse and stimulation of central nervous system such as insomnia, hallucinations, tremors, convulsions to death.

Other signs and symptoms of Dexchlorphenamine Maleate  overdosage include may include tinnitus, dizziness, ataxia, blurred vision and hypotension. In adults, it causes depression with drowsiness and coma, and an excitement phase leading to convulsions followed by depression may occur. In children, stimulation if central nervous system is dominant where it causes atropine-like signs and symptoms such as dry mouth, fixed dilated pupils,flushing, fever and gastrointestinal symptoms. Hallucinations, incoordination, and convulsions may also occur with Dexchlorphenamine Maleate toxicity. In adults, it causes depression with drowsiness and coma, and an excitement phase may lead to convulsions followed by depression may occur.

Single toxic dosage of betamethasone is not expected to cause acute problems. However, at most extreme dosages, signs and symptoms of corticosteroid toxicity is seen. 

Treatment of Acute Overdosage

If the patient is conscious, immediately induce emesis. Gastric lavage may also be done. Dialysis is not shown to be helpful in Celestamine toxicity. 
Stimulants should be avoided. Treatment of the signs and symptoms of overdosage is symptomatic and supportive. If the patient is hypotensive, vasopressors can be used.  Convulsions are best treated with a short-acting depressant, such as thiopental.

Fluida maintenance should be perfectly done and electrolytes should be monitored in serum and urine, with particular attention to potassium and sodium balance. If there is electrolyte imbalance, treat immediately.

Contraindications

• Never use this drug in a patient who is having any fungal infections in the body.
• Should not be used in newborn and premature infants.
• Using Celestamine in patients who have shown hypersensitivity to Betamethasone or Dexchlorphenamine Maleate  or any chemical compounds similar to Celestamine should be avoided. 
• Patients who are on therapy with Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Drug and Food Interactions of Celestamine

Celestamine may interact with several other drugs  and foods that can increase the risk of side effects. To avoid the  harmful drug interactions, yo should always inform your doctor about the drugs that you are taking currently. 

Medications that may cause drug interactions with Celestamine are,

• Cardiac glycosides enhance arrhythmias or digitalis toxicity.
• Phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampicin, ephedrine enhance the metabolism of Celestamine (Betamethasone/ dexchlorpheniramine).
• Coumarins, aspirin, NSAIDs, antidiabetic drugs.

Foods or alcohol will also interact with Celestamine and increase the risk for serious side effects.  

Some diseases or health conditions can alter the way the drug works. It is important to inform your doctor about the diseases you have especially if you have liver or kidney disease, diabetes, tuberculosis, glaucoma, osteoporosis, cataract, thyroid diseases, stomach problems (ulcer, bleeding), diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, Chest congestion, heart problems, depression, mental sickness, high blood pressure etc

SOME COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY PATIENTS

Celestamine should be stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent damage of the drug, it should not be stored in the bathroom or the freezer. It is important to check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist as there are different brands of Celestamine.

For safety, keep all medicines away from children and pets.

Do not flush Celestamine down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard the drug when it is expired or no longer needed. Seek advice from the pharmacist for more details on how to discard the drug safely.

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, should be taken with food, after meals or at bedtime.

Celestamine is not safe to take if you are breastfeeding or planning to start breastfeeding. Celestamine is a corticosteroid that  can harm the fetus or an infant. This drug can also interrupt the normal growth of a newborn baby. Always consult a doctor before using Celestamine if you are a breastfeeding mother. 

No, Celestamine doesn’t cause addiction, but it may cause sedation and drowsiness.  

Yes. Celestamine may cause sedation and drowsiness.  

Celestamine is used as mixtures with other cough syrups to treat cough. Celestamine is also used to treat other respiratory conditions such as allergic rhinitis and 
severe Bronchial Asthma

Do not take for more than 7 days in a row. If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment or if you have any of the side effects we mentioned above, consult your doctor.