chlorpheniramine
Chlorpheniramine is an over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamine that treats allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy throat. It works by blocking a chemical called histamine in our bodies. The medication is typically taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed, but there's an extended-release tablet that can be taken twice daily. Chlorpheniramine is available as a generic and many different brand-name products. Some side effects include drowsiness and dry mouth. It's generally considered safe to take during pregnancy.
What is Chlorpheniramine?
What is Chlorpheniramine used for?
Short-term relief of allergy symptoms:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Itchy nose or throat
How Chlorpheniramine works
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. It blocks a chemical called histamine in your body, reducing inflammation and treating allergy symptoms like runny nose and itchy eyes.
Drug facts
Side effects of Chlorpheniramine
The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.
Common Side Effects
- Sleepiness
- Dizziness
- Constipation
- Blurry vision
- Dry mouth
Less Common Side Effects
- Headache
- Stomach upset
- Trouble urinating
- Weakness
- Hyperactivity (more common in children)
Chlorpheniramine serious side effects
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Excessive sleepiness or dizziness
More on Chlorpheniramine side effects
The following Chlorpheniramine side effects have also been reported
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
- Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Sudden eye pain or change in vision such as blurry vision, seeing halos around lights, vision loss
- Pain or trouble when passing urine
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
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Pros and cons of Chlorpheniramine
Pros
- Available over the counter
- Works quickly compared to other similar medications
- Available in both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) forms
- Safe for children and adults
Cons
- Can make you feel sleepy or dizzy
- Might need to take multiple times a day
- Not the best choice for older adults
- Can worsen certain medical conditions including glaucoma, stomach ulcers, and urinary problems
Pharmacist tips for Chlorpheniramine
- Chlorpheniramine can make you sleepy and dizzy. Don't drive until you know how this medication affects you. It's best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication because it can make these side effects worse.
- Don't use chlorpheniramine as a way to make a child go to sleep. While this medication usually makes adults sleepy, it can have the opposite effect in children and make them hyper. If your child is having trouble sleeping, contact their pediatrician for other options.
- If you're taking chlorpheniramine liquid, use the measuring device provided with the product or ask your pharmacist for one. Don't use household spoons because this could cause you to take or give the wrong dose.
- If you're taking chlorpheniramine extended-release tablets, don't crush or chew them. Be sure to swallow them whole, because breaking the tablets could cause the medication to not work as well.
- Avoid taking chlorpheniramine with other antihistamines, as it can cause more drowsiness or dizziness. Many OTC cold or allergy medications contain antihistamines, so check labels carefully. Ask your pharmacist if you’re unsure.
More on Chlorpheniramine tips
Common questions about Chlorpheniramine
Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of Chlorpheniramine. Don't drive or do anything that requires you to be alert until you know how this medication affects you. Also keep in mind that alcohol and other medications that can cause you to feel sleepy (e.g., sedatives) can intensify this side effect.
Not typically. Chlorpheniramine doesn't raise blood pressure alone. But it's sometimes combined with other medications found over the counter, like decongestants, which can raise your blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, ask your healthcare professional which allergy treatment is safest for you.
Yes, Chlorpheniramine is available over the counter. You don't need a prescription to take it. You can find Chlorpheniramine in both brand-name and generic products, including tablets and liquids.
Both Chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) are first-generation antihistamines that are available over the counter, but they have some differences. Both are used to treat cold and allergy symptoms, but diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can also be used as a sleep aid. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) might work faster to treat allergies, and is available as an extended-release tablet that lasts up to 12 hours. Follow up with your healthcare professional to learn more differences between these medications.
If you're pregnant, don't use Chlorpheniramine until you've talked to a healthcare professional (HCP). Generally, it's considered safe during pregnancy, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists lists it as a safe option. But it's best to discuss the risks and benefits with your HCP first.
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Risks and warnings for Chlorpheniramine
Chlorpheniramine can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.
Sleepiness
- Risk factors: Drinking alcohol while taking chlorpheniramine | Taking other medications that cause sleepiness | Ages 65 and older
Chlorpheniramine can make you very sleepy, which can affect your ability to focus, think, or react. This side effect is more likely or might be stronger if you're over 65 years old, drink alcohol while taking this medication, or take other medications that cause sleepiness (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines, sleep medications). Don't drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
Worsening of medical conditions
- Risk factors: Breathing problems | Glaucoma | Enlarged prostate problems
Don't take chlorpheniramine if you have breathing problems, glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate unless your primary care provider said it was safe to do so. This medication can worsen these conditions and lead to serious side effects. Make sure your care team knows about all medical conditions you have before starting chlorpheniramine.
Accidental overdose
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine, which is in many other OTC products. Using more than one medication containing an antihistamine can lead to an accidental overdose and cause serious side effects, such as extreme drowsiness. Very rarely, it can result in seizures, hallucinations, or even death. To prevent an accidental overdose, read package labels carefully. If you're not sure if a product has an antihistamine, ask your pharmacist. If you or your loved one experiences an accidental overdose, get medical help right away or contact Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
Chlorpheniramine dosage
Tablet| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4mg | 30 tablets | $2.72 | $0.09 |
Typical dosage for Chlorpheniramine
There are several manufacturers of chlorpheniramine that might have various strengths and concentrations. The dose and age cut-offs might differ depending on the product you have. Always check the box for specific directions. Below are some examples of dosing instructions.
-
Chlorpheniramine immediate-release tablets:
- Adults and children 12 years and up: The typical dose is 4 mg every 4 to 6 hours. Don't take more than 24 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Children 6 to under 12 years: The typical dose is 2 mg (½ tablet) every 4 to 6 hours. Don't take more than 12 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Children under 6 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.
-
Chlorpheniramine extended-release tablets:
- Adults and children 12 years and up: The typical dose is 12 mg by mouth every 12 hours. Don't take more than 24 mg in a 24-hour period.
- Children ages under 12 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.
-
Ed Chlorped Jr (chlorpheniramine) liquid: Each 5 mL contains 2 mg of chlorpheniramine.
- Adults and children 12 years and up: Take 10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) by mouth every 4 to 6 hours. Don't take more than 120 mL (12 teaspoonfuls) in a 24-hour period.
- Children 6 to under 12 years: Take 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) by mouth every 4 to 6 hours. Don't take more than 30 mL (6 teaspoonfuls) in a 24-hour period.
- Children under 6 years: Ask your child's pediatrician.
How much does Chlorpheniramine cost?
$2.72
What are alternatives to Chlorpheniramine?
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