Q: I am having Fintal Nasal Spray, Tab. Stemiz and Ifiral Nasal drops but I have heard that these have been banned or discontinued; if so, what suitable substitutes can I take?

A:Stemiz is the brand name of a medicine called astemizole. It was banned many years ago in the western countries but the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) took his own time to outlaw this dangerous drug that can cause serious cardiac problems. Fintal and Ifiral Nasal contain sodium cromoglycate. It is not banned but not available in the market apparently due to low demand and other commercial reasons.