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Azatadine Maleate

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 24, 2026

Azatadine Maleate is an antihistamine medication that was historically used to treat allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis and perennial rhinitis. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. This medication has been discontinued in many countries due to safety concerns related to its sedating properties and side effect profile.

Quick summary

Azatadine Maleate is a discontinued antihistamine previously used for allergic conditions that has been withdrawn from most markets due to safety concerns.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 24, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

RxNorm
58275
Generic
Azatadine Maleate
Class
pin-variant
Brands
—
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
—
Forms
—
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)tablet
Usual dose
1mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
0.5mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
0.5mg once daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Single dose that may cause serious toxicity in adults
Chronic overdose: Prolonged use exceeding recommended daily doses may lead to cumulative toxicity
Immediate actions
Gastric lavage within 1-2 hours of ingestion, activated charcoal administration, supportive care
Antidote
No specific antidote available(Supportive care is primary treatment; no specific antidote exists)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

10 groups
⚠

pregnancy

first trimester
caution
FDA Category
B
Dose Adjustment

avoid if possible

Key Recommendations

use only if clearly needed and benefits outweigh potential risks

Monitor

regular prenatal monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

pregnancy

third trimester
caution
FDA Category
B
Dose Adjustment

avoid near term

Key Recommendations

avoid use close to delivery due to potential effects on fetus

Monitor

fetal monitoring in late pregnancy

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

lactation

breastfeeding
unsafe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

discontinue breastfeeding

Key Recommendations

azatadine maleate is excreted in breast milk and may cause sedation in nursing infants

Monitor

monitor infant for excessive drowsiness

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

geriatric

elderly
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

reduce dose

Key Recommendations

use with caution due to increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects and sedation

Monitor

monitor for confusion, dizziness, urinary retention

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

pediatric_age

children under 2
contraindicated
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

not recommended

Key Recommendations

not recommended for infants and toddlers under 2 years due to risk of serious adverse effects

Monitor

close monitoring for respiratory depression

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

⚠

pediatric_age

children 2 to 12
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

use with caution

Key Recommendations

use only under medical supervision with appropriate dosing

Monitor

monitor for sedation and behavioral changes

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

renal_impairment

mild
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

use with caution and monitor renal function

Monitor

periodic renal function monitoring

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

renal_impairment

severe
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

reduce dose

Key Recommendations

reduce dose and increase dosing interval; monitor for adverse effects

Monitor

frequent renal function monitoring and drug level monitoring if available

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

⚠

hepatic_impairment

mild to moderate
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

reduce dose

Key Recommendations

use with caution; may require dose reduction

Monitor

monitor liver function and for signs of toxicity

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✗

hepatic_impairment

severe
unsafe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

avoid use

Key Recommendations

avoid use in severe hepatic impairment due to significantly reduced metabolism

Monitor

liver function monitoring

Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingFDA
2023

Commonly prescribed since

Value:1980s

General prescribing information

drug_classWHO
2023

Drug class

Value:Antihistamine (H1 receptor antagonist)

Drug class information

usageMedical guidelines
2023

Common uses

Value:Allergic rhinitis, urticaria, allergic dermatitis

Common therapeutic uses

Treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis. May also have been used for symptomatic relief of itching and sneezing associated with common allergic conditions.

Azatadine is an H1 receptor antagonist that competitively blocks histamine at these receptor sites, preventing histamine-mediated allergic responses. It also possesses anticholinergic properties.

This medication has been discontinued or withdrawn from markets in many countries including the United States due to safety and side effect concerns. It caused significant sedation and had a relatively unfavorable side effect profile compared to newer antihistamines. Patients should consult current medication options with their healthcare provider for allergy management.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy