acrivastine /ak″ri-vas′tēn/ , a nonsedating antihistamine used in the treatment of hay fever. It is administered orally. ▪ INDICATIONS: When combined with the decongestant pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, it is prescribed in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: The drug should not be given to patients with known sensitivity to this drug or other alkylamine antihistamines or any components of the formulation. Since pseudoephedrine is a sympathomimetic, the use of this combination is contraindicated in patients using monoamine oxidase inhibitors or in those with severe coronary artery disease or severe hypertension. It is also contraindicated in those with renal insufficiency. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: The side effects most often reported include somnolence, headache, dizziness, nervousness, insomnia, tachycardia, palpitations, xerostomia, nausea, and muscle weakness.
