Aptigar Syrup 0.5mg Syrup

Pizotifen is used to prevent migraine headaches (with or without aura) and cluster headaches. Taken regularly, it can lower the number of attacks and make the ones you do get less severe.

It works by blocking natural chemicals, such as serotonin and histamine, that act on blood vessels in the brain and are involved in headaches. It is not a painkiller and will not stop a migraine once it has begun.

Take it regularly, exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, even when you have no headache.

• Swallow the tablets whole with a drink if this helps.
• If you take it once a day, take it in the evening a few hours before bed, as any drowsiness can help you sleep.
• If you miss a once-daily dose, just take the next one at the usual time. If you take it several times a day, take the missed dose when you remember unless your next dose is due within 4 hours. Never take a double dose.
• Do not stop suddenly. Your doctor may lower the dose slowly, as stopping abruptly can cause anxiety, shaking, poor sleep and feeling sick.

Common side effects include:

• increased appetite and weight gain
• drowsiness or tiredness
• dizziness
• feeling sick or dry mouth
• constipation

Rarely it can cause sleep problems, low mood, anxiety, pins and needles or muscle aches, and very rarely fits.

Stop taking it and get medical help straight away if you have:

• itching or a skin rash
• swelling of the face, lips or throat
• difficulty breathing or wheezing

Do not take it if you are allergic to pizotifen or take an MAOI antidepressant.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have kidney problems
• have difficulty passing urine
• have glaucoma (raised pressure in the eye)
• have epilepsy
• have been told you cannot tolerate some sugars (the tablets contain lactose)
• take medicines for anxiety or sleep, antihistamines, cold remedies or blood pressure medicines

It is not recommended for children under 2 years.

Do not store above 25°C. Keep in the original package, out of the sight and reach of children.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: ask your doctor for advice before taking it if you are pregnant, planning a baby or breastfeeding.

Alcohol: it is best not to drink alcohol, as it can make you more sleepy.

Driving: do not drive or use machines if you feel drowsy or dizzy.