Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Azatadine Maleate
Classification
Therapeutic: Antihistamine, for allergy relief
Pharmacological: H1-antagonist
FDA Approved Indications
- Allergic rhinitis
- Urticaria (hives)
Mechanism of Action
Azatadine is an H1 receptor antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine, thereby reducing allergy symptoms.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically 10 mg taken orally once daily.
Pediatric: Dosage in children varies; consult specific guidelines.
Geriatric: Use with caution; start at lower doses due to potential increased sensitivity.
Renal Impairment: Adjust dose based on severity of impairment.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor for increased effects, as hepatic metabolism may be affected.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed from gastrointestinal tract.
Distribution: Widely distributed in body tissues, crosses the blood-brain barrier.
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver, undergoes hepatic biotransformation.
Excretion: Primarily excreted in urine, some in feces.
Half Life: Approximately 8-10 hours.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to azatadine or other antihistamines.
- Use caution in elderly, individuals with urinary retention, glaucoma, or cardiovascular disease.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with asthma, it may cause CNS depression or excitation.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Drowsiness (Common)
- Dry mouth (Common)
- Dizziness (Less common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Allergic reactions, including rash, pruritus, swelling (Rare)
- Seizures, palpitations (Very rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- CNS depressants, including alcohol; other anticholinergic agents.
Drug-Food Interactions
- Alcohol may increase sedative effects.
Drug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for effectiveness in relieving allergy symptoms and for adverse effects such as sedation or anticholinergic effects.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for falls due to sedation or dizziness.
- Ineffective breathing pattern if adverse reactions occur.
Implementation: Administer with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs; advise patients about potential drowsiness.
Evaluation: Assess relief of allergy symptoms and monitor for adverse effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives; can cause drowsiness.
- Do not operate heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
- Report signs of allergic reactions or severe side effects.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings: N/A
Genetic Factors: No specific genetic considerations identified.
Lab Test Interference: None known.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe drowsiness, hallucinations, agitation, seizures, tachycardia.
Treatment: Supportive care, activated charcoal if ingestion was recent, and symptomatic treatment. Consider hospitalization for severe cases.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.