The Web Health

Dexbrompheniramine

Generic name: dexbrompheniramine [DEX-brom-fen-IR-a-meen]

Brand names: Ala Hist IR, PediaVent, Ala-Hist IR Dosage forms: oral liquid (2 mg/5 mL), oral tablet (2 mg)

Drug class: antihistamines

What is Dexbrompheniramine?

Dexbrompheniramine, an antihistamine, reduces histamine's effects in the body. Histamine may cause symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny or watery eyes, and a running nose. Dexbrompheniramine can be used to treat symptoms such as runny or stuffy noses, sneezing, and itching caused by allergies. It is also effective for treating the flu and the common cold. Dexbrompheniramine can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.

Side effects of Dexbrompheniramine

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergy reaction, seek immediate medical attention: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue.

Dexbrompheniramine may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Fast or irregular heartbeat;
  • Mood changes
  • Tremor, seizure (convulsions);
  • Easy bruising, bleeding, or unusual weakness
  • Feeling short of breath
  • Little or no urine.

Side effects common to dexbrompheniramine include:

  • Drowsiness;
  • Dry throat or nose;
  • Constipation;
  • Blurred vision
  • Feeling restless or excited, especially in children

There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; otherwise contact FDA's 1-800-FDA-1088 number to report it.

Warnings

Antihistamines should never be used to put a child to sleep.

Before you take this drug

If you suffer from any other health conditions, such as:

  • Chronic bronchitis or asthma
  • Glaucoma;
  • An enlarged prostrate can cause urination issues.

Dexbrompheniramine is known to cause harm to an unborn child. Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant. Dexbrompheniramine is unknown to cause any side effects on the baby who's nursing. Antihistamines can also reduce breast milk production. Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're breastfeeding.

How to take Dexbrompheniramine?

Do not exceed the recommended dosage or duration. Use only the recommended dose. Do not exceed it. This medication is typically taken for only a few days until the symptoms disappear. Avoid taking it for more than seven days. Contact your doctor immediately if symptoms persist after the first week of treatment or you experience a high fever accompanied by a headache or other symptoms such as a skin rash, a cough, or a skin rash. This medication should not be given to children younger than four years of age. Ask a doctor first before you give a child a cold or cough medicine. Children can die if they misuse cough medicines. This medicine should not be given to children younger than six years of age without consulting a doctor. Antihistamines should never be used to put a child to sleep. Tell your doctor or surgeon if this medication was taken within the last few days and if you are going to need medical testing or surgery. Keep away from heat and moisture. Liquid form should never freeze over.

What happens if I miss the dose?

Dexbrompheniramine can be used as needed, and you do not need to follow a schedule. Use the missed dose as quickly as possible if you're on a dosing schedule. If your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take extra medication to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Dexbrompheniramine can cause blurred vision or affect your ability to think or react. You should be careful when driving or doing anything else that requires alertness and the ability to see clearly. Dexbrompheniramine can be exacerbated by alcohol. Before using other cold or sleep medicines, ask your doctor. Dexbrompheniramine, or an antihistamine similar to it, is found in many combination medications. You can get too much dexbrompheniramine by taking certain products together. Avoid overheating or becoming dehydrated when exercising in warm weather. You may become more susceptible to heatstroke if you take dexbrompheniramine, which can reduce sweating.

Interaction with other drug

Before using this medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you also use any other medications, such as prescription medicines and over-the-counter drugs. When used in combination, some medicines may cause harmful or unwanted effects. This medication guide does not list all interactions. This medicine can be worsened by other medications that cause you to sleep or reduce your breathing. Before taking dexbrompheniramine along with sleeping pills, narcotics, muscle relaxers, or medicine to treat anxiety, depression, or seizures, ask your doctor.