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Chlorpheniramine Coupon - Chlorpheniramine 4mg tablet

chlorpheniramine

Generic Aller-Chlor
Used for Allergic Rhinitis
Used for Allergic Rhinitis

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.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on November 25, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

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.

Are you looking for information on chlorpheniramine/phenylephrine instead?
When does Chlorpheniramine start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAller-chlor, Chlorphen-12, Pharbechlor, Ed Chlorped Jr
Drug ClassAntihistamine
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityOver-the-counter
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$7.50(save 63.27%)
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$2.76
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What are the 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

Other Side Effects

  • Headache
  • Stomach upset
  • Trouble urinating
  • Weakness
  • Hyperactivity (more common in children)

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Excessive sleepiness or dizziness
When do Chlorpheniramine possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Sleepiness
Dizziness
Blurry vision
Dry mouth

Source: DailyMed

More on Chlorpheniramine side effects

antihistamine: side effects antihistamine

Drowsiness, Dry Mouth, and More: 7 Antihistamine Side Effects to Know About

Written by Tegan Smedley, PharmD, APh

The following 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):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Chlorpheniramine

thumbs-up

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

thumbs-down

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

Pharmacist tips for Chlorpheniramine

pharmacist

  • 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

            antihistamines: allergy: cold: flu: man sneezing into tissue-949412934

            5 Pharmacist-Backed Tips for Taking Antihistamines

            Written by Sonia Amin Thomas, PharmD, BCOP
            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Chlorpheniramine

            Does chlorpheniramine cause drowsiness?
            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.
            Does chlorpheniramine raise blood pressure?
            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.
            Is chlorpheniramine over the counter?
            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.
            What's the difference between chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine?
            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.
            Can you take chlorpheniramine during pregnancy?
            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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            What are the 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.

            risk-warning

            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.

              risk-warning

              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.

                risk-warning

                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.

                dosage

                Chlorpheniramine dosage forms

                The average cost for 30 tablets of 4mg of Chlorpheniramine is $2.76 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 63.27% off the average retail price of $7.50.
                tablet
                Tablet
                DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                4mg30 tablets$2.76$0.09

                Typical dosing 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.

                drug-cost

                How much does Chlorpheniramine cost?

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                Chlorpheniramine (generic)
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                alternatives

                What are alternatives to Chlorpheniramine?

                There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Chlorpheniramine. Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                Chlorpheniramine
                Used for:

                Short-term relief of allergy symptoms:

                • Sneezing

                • Runny nose

                • Itchy or watery eyes

                • Itchy nose or throat

                $2.76 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
                Used for:

                • Allergies

                • Common cold symptoms

                • Trouble sleeping for people 12 years and older

                $2.70 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                Fexofenadine (Allegra)
                Used for:
                $7.66 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                latest news

                What is the latest news about Chlorpheniramine?

                Drinking alcohol while taking allergy medications like Benadryl, Zyrtec, and Claritin can cause negative side effects. Here’s what you need to know about alcohol and antihistamines.

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                Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so it’s advisable to time your dose. Here’s the best time to take antihistamines, plus more tips for managing side effects.

                5 Pharmacist-Backed Tips for Taking Antihistamines

                Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness, so it’s advisable to time your dose. Here’s the best time to take antihistamines, plus more tips for managing side effects.
                images

                Chlorpheniramine images

                Yellow Round 44 194 - Allergy 4mg Tablet
                This medicine is Yellow, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "44 194".Yellow Round 44 194 - Allergy 4mg Tablet
                Yellow Round 44 194 - Foster & Thrive Allergy Relief 4mg Tablet
                This medicine is Yellow, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "44 194".Yellow Round 44 194 - Foster & Thrive Allergy Relief 4mg Tablet

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                References

                Best studies we found

                American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). What medicine can I take for allergies while I’m pregnant?

                Borowy, C. S., et al. (2023). Antihistamine toxicity. StatPearls.

                Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). PROTECT your child: Use the right tool to give the right dose.

                View All References (3)

                Edwards Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2024). ED Chlorped Jr- chlorpheniramine maleate liquid [package insert]. DailyMed.

                KVK-Tech, Inc. (2018). Chlorphen-12- chlorpheniramine maleate tablet, film coated, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.

                Major Pharmaceuticals. (2024). Allergy- chlorpheniramine maleate tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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