What is the most important information I should know about chlorpheniramine?
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous
activities. Chlorpheniramine may cause
dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or
drowsiness, avoid these activities.
Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are
taking chlorpheniramine.
Do not crush, chew, or break any timed release forms of chlorpheniramine. Swallow
them whole. They are specially formulated to release slowly into your body.
What is chlorpheniramine?
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. Chlorpheniramine blocks the effects of the naturally
occurring chemical histamine in your body.
Chlorpheniramine is used to treat sneezing; runny nose; itching, watery eyes; hives; rashes;
itching; and other symptoms of allergies and the common cold.
Chlorpheniramine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication
guide.
Who should not take chlorpheniramine?
Do not take chlorpheniramine if you have taken a
monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
such as
isocarboxazid (
Marplan),
phenelzine (
Nardil), or
tranylcypromine (
Parnate) in the last 14
days. A very dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
You may not be able to take chlorpheniramine, or you may require a
lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Chlorpheniramine is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to
harm an unborn baby. Do not take chlorpheniramine without first talking to your doctor if you are
pregnant.
Chlorpheniramine passes into breast milk. Infants are especially sensitive to the effects
of antihistamines, and serious side effects could occur in a nursing baby. Chlorpheniramine is not
recommended if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not take chlorpheniramine without first talking to
your doctor if you are nursing a baby.
If you are over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from
chlorpheniramine. You may require a lower dose of this medication.
How should I take chlorpheniramine?
Take chlorpheniramine exactly as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor. If
you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Chlorpheniramine can be taken with or without food.
Do not crush, chew, or break any timed release forms of chlorpheniramine. Swallow
them whole. They are specially formulated to release slowly into your body.
To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the syrup form of chlorpheniramine with a
special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular tablespoon. If you do not have a
dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.
Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. The maximum amount of
chlorpheniramine that you should take in 1 day is 24 mg. The regular-release tablets and the syrup
are usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed (four to six times a day). The sustained-release tablets
and capsules are usually taken every 8 to 12 hours as needed (two or three times a day).
Store chlorpheniramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
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