Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine for Allergic Rhinitis: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Chlorpheniramine

Diphenhydramine

Summary for Chlorpheniramine

Over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Chlorpheniramine

Short-term relief of allergy symptoms:

Sneezing
Runny nose
Itchy or watery eyes
Itchy nose or throat

Pros and Cons for 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

Common Side Effects for Chlorpheniramine

Sleepiness
Dizziness
Constipation
Blurry vision
Dry mouth

Warnings for Chlorpheniramine

Sleepiness
Worsening of medical conditions
Accidental overdose

Summary for Diphenhydramine

Over-the-counter

Diphenhydramine, also known by the brand name Benadryl, is an over-the-counter antihistamine used to relieve allergy or common cold symptoms in adults and children. It comes as pills and a liquid and is typically taken by mouth every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Because it can make you drowsy, some people also use it as a sleep aid at bedtime. Common side effects include sleepiness, dizziness, and dry mouth.

Indications for Diphenhydramine

Short-term relief of allergy or common cold symptoms (runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and itchy or watery eyes) - people 6 years and older
Occasional trouble sleeping - people 12 years and older

Pros and Cons for Diphenhydramine

Pros

Relieves allergy and cold symptoms in about 15 to 30 minutes
Safe for children as young as 6 years old
Available over the counter
Comes as pills and liquid

Cons

Can make you feel sleepy or dizzy
Might need to take multiple times a day for symptom relief
Not the best choice for older adults
Can worsen certain conditions like glaucoma and stomach ulcers

Common Side Effects for Diphenhydramine

Sleepiness
Dizziness
Constipation
Blurry vision
Dry mouth

Warnings for Diphenhydramine

Sleepiness
Accidental overdose
Worsening of certain health problems

Prices with our coupons for Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

Chlorpheniramine30 tablets / 4mg

$7.30$7.50

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Diphenhydramine30 capsules / 25mg

$9.66-

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Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine