Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine medication. Uses of Chlorpheniramine are mainly to treat allergies and common cold symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing and itching as well as watery eyes. It is the first-generation of antihistamines for several purposes. It works by reducing the effects of histamine in the body that produces these symptoms. It is also used to manage hives and angioedema in which there is a presence swelling of the tissues under the skin. A study conducted to test the effectiveness of the consumption of chlorpheniramine against placebo showed that there is a suppressive effect of this medication on histamine-induced wheals and flares in 24 hours.
It is available in the form of syrup, intravenous as well as tablets. It should be only be taken according to doctor’s advice as there are several side effects. A special precaution is needed in children especially as its misuse may lead to premature death. Chlorpheniramine syrup is not licensed to be prescribed for children under the age of one. In certain occasions, doctors may prescribe it with cautious dosing. The most common side effects are drowsiness and decreased coordination. There may also be an increased sensitivity to sunlight, constipation as well as dry mouth. Due to its side effects, it is advised to not drive or operate heavy machinery as it may cause accidents due to the drowsy effect. It is contraindicated if there is narrow-angle glaucoma, a blockage in the digestive tract, an enlarged prostate or trouble urinating, this medication should not be consumed. It should be taken with caution by consulting the pharmacist if there is a liver or kidney disease as the dosage will be different. As every medication has the different dosage for children and adults, the same applies for chlorpheniramine. For adults, to relieve the symptoms, it is suggested that 4mg three to four times a day is sufficient.
|
Child’s weight (kg)
|
10-14
|
15-20
|
21-24
|
25-29
|
66-76
|
30-34
|
40+
|
kg
|
|
Liquid 2 mg/ 5 milliliters (mL)
|
2.5
|
4
|
5
|
5
|
7.5
|
7.5
|
10
|
mL
|
|
Liquid 2 mg/ 1 teaspoon (tsp)
|
1/2
|
3/4
|
1
|
1
|
1 1/2
|
1 1/2
|
2
|
tsp
|
|
Tablets 4 mg
|
–
|
–
|
1/2
|
1/2
|
1/2
|
1
|
1
|
tablet
|
For children, the dosage depends on the table above. According to the body weight of a child, the dosage in the form of tablets and syrup is matched accordingly in the table. Look for the weight of the child in the top row of the dose table. Then, see below the weight of your child for the dose based on syrup or tablet form. Another way is to give it according to the child’s age. For children six to 12 months, 1mg twice daily. For children aged one to five years old, 1-2 mg three times a day. For six to 12 years old, 2-4 mg three times a day should be given. Always check regarding the dosage with the pharmacist if you are getting it from over the counter. As for the elderly, lower doses should be given. If you are going to have a skin test, stop this medication 48 hours before it because it may cause a biased result. If you are about to undergo surgery, please notify the surgeon if you have taken this medication in the last few days.
In the case of pregnancy and breastfeeding, it is only recommended to use chlorpheniramine if the benefits supersede the risk. Alcohol should also be avoided as it may enhance the sedative effects of Chlorpheniramine. For syrup, the usage of syringes gives more accurate measurement compared to a teaspoon. Ideally, a measuring spoon should be used. If there is no dose-measuring tool around, the pharmacist will give you one. This medication is taken when required, hence a dosing schedule may not be necessary. However, if it is taken regularly, the missed dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it near to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Try to avoid double doses especially in children as they will get overdosed quicker than the adults. In the event of overdose, consult a doctor immediately. Look out for the symptoms of overdose such as excessive sedation, seizures, difficulty in breathing, dry mouth and even collapse.
As a parent, it is not advisable to give this antihistamine medication just to make your child fall asleep. Avoid crushing or chewing the tablet. Always consume it as a whole. This is due to the fact that breaking it releases too much of the drug at a time. Seek medical attention if there is a concurrent fever, headache or a rash or if there is no relief of symptoms.
While on this medication, it is important to ensure that you do not get a heat stroke or getting dehydrated. This is very important to note as dehydration may lead to death, especially in children. This medication can reduce sweating can make you more likely to get a heat stroke. You also need to take note to inform your doctor or pharmacist that you are consuming this medication as it may interact with other medications. Do not give your medication to other people even if their symptoms are similar to yours. If the medication has expired, do not consume it. Lastly, keep it out of the reach of children.
