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Compare Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Chlorpheniramine
    Diphenhydramine
  • Chlorpheniramine
    Diphenhydramine

  • Summary of Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

    Summary for Antihistamine

    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.

    Summary for Antihistamine

    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 of Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

    Indications for

    Short-term relief of allergy symptoms:

    •Sneezing
    •Runny nose
    •Itchy or watery eyes
    •Itchy nose or throat
    Indications for
    •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 of Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    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
    Pros and Const for Antihistamine
    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 of Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Constipation
    •Blurry vision
    •Dry mouth
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Dizziness
    •Constipation
    •Blurry vision
    •Dry mouth

  • Warnings of Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Worsening of medical conditions
    •Accidental overdose
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness
    •Accidental overdose
    •Worsening of certain health problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Chlorpheniramine vs. Diphenhydramine

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