Description

Chlorpheniramine (often sold as Chlorpheniramine Maleate) is an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergies, hay fever, common cold, and urticaria (hives). It helps reduce symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itching, watery eyes, and skin rashes by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance produced during allergic reactions.

Prescription

• Prescription-only medicine (POM) in most countries, though some low-dose forms may be OTC.

Therapeutic Category

• Antihistamine / Antiallergic agent

Active Ingredients/Composition

Each tablet typically contains:

• Chlorpheniramine maleate 4 mg (per tablet)

Vitamins

• None

Minerals

• None

Variant

• Chlorpheniramine 10’s (blister pack) – 4 mg tablets
• Other available forms:
  • Syrup (2 mg/5 ml)
    Extended-release tablets or capsules

Consume Type

• Oral tablet

Directions/Usage

• Adults and children over 12 years: 4 mg every 4–6 hours as needed (maximum 24 mg in 24 hours).
• Children 6–12 years: 2 mg every 4–6 hours as needed.
• Children under 6 years: Use only under medical advice.
• Swallow with water; may be taken with or without food.
  

Common Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat
• Dizziness or blurred vision
• Constipation or urinary retention (rare)
  

Package Type

• Commonly supplied in blister packs of 10 tablets (10’s)
• Also available in larger packs (10×10’s) for hospital or pharmacy use
  

Storage Advice

• Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place.
• Protect from light and moisture.
• Keep out of reach of children.
  

Safety Advice

• Avoid driving or operating machinery, as it can cause drowsiness.
• Avoid alcohol, which can increase sedation.
• Consult a doctor before use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, asthma, urinary retention, or enlarged prostate.
• Do not exceed recommended dose.
  

Product Substitutes

Equivalent or similar brands include:

• Piriton Tablets
  Allermine Tablets
• Histalix (in combination form)
• Chlor-Trimeton
• Allercet
  

Manufacturer/Marketer

• Multiple pharmaceutical companies manufacture chlorpheniramine, including:
  • GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) – Piriton brand
  • Exeter Pharmaceuticals, Cipla, Teva, Medihealth, etc.

Country of Origin

• United Kingdom / India (depending on manufacturer)