What is Dexchlorpheniramine?
Dexchlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. The drug blocks the natural chemical histamine that is present in the body. Dexchlorpheniramine treats sneezing, runny or watery noses, itching, and watery eyes, as well as other allergy symptoms. Dexchlorpheniramine can be used in other ways than the ones listed here.
Warnings
Be cautious when operating machines, driving, or engaging in other dangerous activities. Dexchlorpheniramine can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid these activities if you feel dizzy or sleepy. Alcohol should be consumed with caution. While taking dexchlorpheniramine, alcohol can increase dizziness and drowsiness. Dexchlorpheniramine-time-released forms should not be crushed, chewed, or broken. They should be swallowed whole. These tablets are designed to slowly release into the body.
Before you take this drug
Dexchlorpheniramine should not be taken by anyone who has recently used phenelzine, isocarboxazid, or parnate (tranylcypromine), which are monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOI). It is possible that a dangerous drug interaction could lead to severe side effects.
Tell your doctor before taking this medicine if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
- Glaucoma is an eye disease marked by elevated pressure inside of it.
- A stomach ulcer;
- Enlarged prostate or bladder issues;
- Hyperthyroidism (hyperthyroidism) refers to a condition in which the thyroid gland becomes overactive, producing overactive hormone levels in its production of thyroid hormone.
- Hypertension, or heart disease of any kind;
If you suffer from any of these conditions, you might not be able to take dexchlorpheniramine or may need a reduced dose or extra monitoring. Dexchlorpheniramine will not harm an unborn child. If you're pregnant, do not use this medication without consulting your doctor first. Antihistamines can have serious effects on nursing babies. Dexchlorpheniramine should not be taken by women who are breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding a child, do not use this medication without consulting your doctor first. You may experience more side effects if you're over 60. This medication may need to be taken in a smaller dose.
How to take Dexchlorpheniramine?
Follow the directions given by your physician when taking dexchlorpheniramine. Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or nurse to help you understand the directions if you don't. Each dose should be taken with one full glass of filtered water. Dexchlorpheniramine may be taken either with food or without. Dexchlorpheniramine-time-released forms should not be crushed, chewed, or broken. They should be swallowed whole. These tablets are designed to slowly release into the body. Measure the liquid form of syrup with a dose-measuring spoon or cup and not a standard tablespoon. Ask your pharmacist for a device to measure the dose if you don't have one. Do not take more than the prescribed dose. Regular-release tablets or syrup are usually taken four to six hours per day. Timed-release capsules and tablets are typically taken as required every 8–10 hours (two to three times per day). Keep both heat and moisture under control at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As soon as possible, take the missed dose. If it's almost time to take your next dose, then skip the missed one and only take your regular dose. You should not double-up on this medication unless your doctor has instructed you to do so.
What happens if I overdose?
Get immediate medical help. Overdose symptoms include sleepiness, confusion, and weakness. Other signs are ringing ears, blurred eyes, dry mouth, flushing skin, fever, shaking or shaking of the hands, hallucinations, and seizures.
What should be avoided?
Be cautious when operating machines, driving, or engaging in other dangerous activities. Dexchlorpheniramine can cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid these activities if you feel dizzy or sleepy. Alcohol should be consumed with caution. While taking dexchlorpheniramine, alcohol can increase dizziness and drowsiness.
Side effects of Dexchlorpheniramine
Stop taking this medicine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction to dexchlorpheniramine (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives).
Dexchlorpheniramine may also cause less common side effects.Tell your physician of any adverse reactions you are observing.
- Sleepiness, fatigue, or dizziness
- Headache;
- Dry mouth
- A prostate enlarged or causing difficulty urinating
Other side effects may occur. Speak to your doctor if you experience any unusual side effects or if they are particularly bothersome. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report any side effects.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for allergic reaction:
Initial dose: 1 teaspoonful of timed release preparation or 2 mg orally, every 4 to 8 hours.
Adult dose for allergic rhinitis:
Initial dose: 1 teaspoonful of time-released preparation or 2 mg orally, every 4 to 8 hours.
The usual pediatric dose for allergic reactions is:
Children 2–5 years of age: Give 0.5mg (1/4 teaspoonful) every 4-6 hours (don't use the timed release).
From 6 to 11 years old: 1/2 teaspoonful every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 mg at bedtime of the preparation with timed release.
The usual pediatric dose for allergic rhinitis in children is:
Children 2–5 years of age: Give 0.5mg (1/4 teaspoonful) every 4-6 hours (do not use the timed release).
From 6 to 11 years old: 1/2 teaspoonful every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 mg at bedtime of the preparation with timed release.
Interaction with other drug
Dexchlorpheniramine should not be taken by anyone who has recently used a MAOI such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, or parnate. It is possible that a dangerous drug interaction could lead to severe side effects. Speak to your pharmacist prior to taking any other medications over the counter for allergies, insomnia, coughs, or colds. They may contain dexchlorpheniramine or similar medicines, which can lead to antihistamine overload.
Tell your doctor before taking this medicine if you take any of these medicines.
- Sleep or anxiety medicines, such as diazepam or Xanax (alprazolam), chlordiazepoxide or Librium (Restoril), and triazolam or Halcion (triazolam);
- Depression medications such as Elavil, doxepin, nortriptyline, or Pamelor
- Any other medication that makes you feel sleepy or drowsy
Other drugs than the ones listed above may interact with dexchlorpheniramine. Before taking prescription and over-the-counter medications, consult your pharmacist or doctor.
