Chlorpheniramine 4mg Tablets

Chlorpheniramine is a first-generation alkylamine antihistamine that competitively antagonizes H1-receptors, thereby preventing the effects of histamine on capillaries, bronchi, and gastrointestinal smooth muscles. It also possesses anticholinergic and sedative properties due to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to discuss any concerns with your doctor. If you experience any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms that bother you or persist, contact your doctor for guidance:

Feeling sleepy
* Feeling nervous and excitable

Reporting Side Effects

This list is not exhaustive, and you may experience other side effects not mentioned here. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced as a result of the allergy.
All medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, natural products, and vitamins. This information will help your doctor and pharmacist assess potential interactions between this medication and other substances you are taking.
* Any existing health problems, as this medication may interact with certain conditions.

To ensure your safety, it is crucial to verify that this medication can be taken safely with all your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without first consulting your doctor.

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication.

To minimize the risk of severe side effects, do not exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Taking more than the recommended amount may increase your chances of experiencing adverse effects. Additionally, do not take this medication for a longer duration than specified by your doctor.

Until you are aware of how this medication affects you, it is recommended that you avoid operating a vehicle or engaging in activities that require alertness. It is also advisable to refrain from consuming alcohol while taking this drug.

Before using marijuana, other forms of cannabis, or prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications that may cause drowsiness, consult with your doctor.

If you are considering giving this medication to a child, it is crucial to discuss the suitability of different brands with your doctor, as they may be intended for use in specific age groups. When administering this medication to a child, exercise caution, as children may have a higher risk of experiencing excitability. Furthermore, do not use this medication as a means to induce sleep in a child; instead, consult with your doctor.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is necessary to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this medication to both you and your baby.

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) within 14 days (may prolong and intensify anticholinergic and CNS depressant effects)

• Alcohol (increased CNS depression)
• Other CNS depressants (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines, sedatives, hypnotics, anxiolytics, tricyclic antidepressants - increased CNS depression)
• Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, scopolamine, tricyclic antidepressants, some antipsychotics - increased anticholinergic effects like dry mouth, urinary retention, blurred vision)

• Potassium chloride (oral) (increased risk of GI lesions due to anticholinergic effects slowing GI motility)
• Topical anesthetics (e.g., pramoxine - additive CNS depression if systemic absorption occurs)

• Not available

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Urinary retention
• Constipation
• Nervousness (paradoxical excitation, especially in children)
• Confusion (especially in elderly)

Chlorpheniramine is generally considered acceptable for use during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters. It is classified as Pregnancy Category B. However, use in the first trimester should be with caution and only if clearly needed, as with any medication.

Chlorpheniramine is excreted into breast milk. It is rated L3 (moderately safe) by Hale's Lactation Risk Category. It may cause drowsiness or irritability in the infant and may decrease milk supply due to its anticholinergic effects. Use with caution, especially in newborns or premature infants. Consider a non-sedating antihistamine if possible.

Not recommended for children under 2 years of age due to potential for serious side effects, including respiratory depression and paradoxical excitation. Use with caution in children 2-12 years, adhering strictly to recommended doses, as they may experience paradoxical excitation (e.g., restlessness, nervousness, insomnia) rather than sedation.

Elderly patients are more susceptible to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of chlorpheniramine (e.g., confusion, dizziness, dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation). Start with lower doses and monitor closely for adverse effects. Avoid use in elderly patients with conditions exacerbated by anticholinergic effects (e.g., glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy).

• Chlorpheniramine is a first-generation antihistamine known for its sedative and anticholinergic properties.
• It is widely available over-the-counter (OTC) and often found in combination cold and allergy products.
• Due to its sedative effects, it is often preferred for nighttime use or when sedation is not a concern.
• Patients should be advised about potential impairment of driving or operating machinery.
• Caution is advised in patients with glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, or bladder neck obstruction due to anticholinergic effects.
• Paradoxical excitation (restlessness, nervousness) can occur, especially in young children.

• Second-generation antihistamines (e.g., Loratadine, Cetirizine, Fexofenadine, Desloratadine, Levocetirizine) for less sedation and anticholinergic effects.
• Nasal corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone, Mometasone) for allergic rhinitis.
• Cromolyn sodium nasal spray (mast cell stabilizer).
• Decongestants (e.g., Pseudoephedrine, Phenylephrine) for nasal congestion (often used in combination).

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure safe and effective treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it's a good idea to check with your pharmacist. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, don't hesitate to discuss them with your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.