OTCsafety.org
English | Español
Chlorpheniramine
Related Treatments
Related Brands*
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine active ingredient available in over-the-counter (OTC) medicines that treats hay fever or other respiratory allergies. It may be written as chlorpheniramine or chlorpheniramine maleate, but it is the same active ingredient. Chlorpheniramine can be the only active ingredient in an allergy medicine or it can be found in medicines that not only relieve allergies, but other symptoms such as body aches and pains, or symptoms associated with the common cold.
Chlorpheniramine is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is safe and effective when used according to label directions. It is crucial that parents and other caregivers read the OTC Drug Facts label carefully to determine whether the medicine is appropriate for the child they wish to treat. In the case of chlorpheniramine, some medicines may be used in certain children under six at a doctor’s direction, while other products should only be taken by adults or children 12 and older.
*Chlorpheniramine may not be contained in all products sold under these brands. Please read the OTC Drug Facts label carefully for active ingredient information for specific products.
Tips for Medicines with Chlorpheniramine
When using chlorpheiramine-containing medicines, it is important to know that:
- Drowsiness may occur.
- You should avoid alcoholic drinks.
- You should use care when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery.
Ask a healthcare professional before use if:
- You have emphysema, chronic bronchitis, glaucoma, or trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- You are taking sedatives or tranquilizers.
Stop use and ask a doctor if:
- You take too much. Immediately contact a doctor or the poison control national helpline at 800.222.1222.
If you have questions about any of the medicines you are taking or if you have any unexpected side effects, talk to a healthcare professional. And of course, keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
Tips for Parents
- Never use chlorpheniramine or any OTC medicine to sedate or make a child sleepy.
- Do not give an OTC multi-symptom cough and cold product with chlorpheniramine to a child under the age of six unless a doctor tells you to.
- Chlorpheniramine-containing medicines are available in different dosage strengths. Never give any OTC medicine to a child that is only intended to be used by adults.
- Read the label for proper child dosing instructions. Contact a healthcare professional as directed.
Brochures and Resources
Latest Tweets
-
@OTCsafety:
Prevent young children from getting into medicines & vitamins. Pledge to keep them #UpAndAway! http://t.co/sBfT6u8t
-
@OTCsafety:
Great tip! @MDMoms: Sun Tip: Check the expiration date on your sunscreen prior to application.
-
@OTCsafety:
Get info & resources abt over-the-counter medications delivered to your inbox. Sign up for OTCsafety’s e-newsletter! http://t.co/aKQqgKRM
All Rights Reserved CHPA Educational Foundation © 2010
OTCsafety.org content is intended for informational purposes only
and should not be considered medical advice. For more information,
please visit the OTCsafety.org “Terms of Use” page.