Chlorpheniramine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Chlorpheniramine (klor-fen-IR-a-meen)

Treats sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, itchy nose, or sore throat caused by colds, hay fever or, other allergies. This medicine is an antihistamine.

Brand Name(s):

Aller-Chlor, Allergy, Chlor-Phen, Chlorphen, C.P.M. Tablets, Chlor-Trimeton Allergy, Teldrin HBP, Diabetic Tussin Allergy Relief, Good Sense Allergy, ED-CHLOR-TAN, CPM-12, AHIST, TanaHist-PD, Ed ChlorPed, ChlorTan

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to chlorpheniramine. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, Liquid, Long Acting Capsule

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. You might need to shake the oral liquid medicine just before measuring the dose. Follow the directions on the label.
  • Swallow the extended-release capsule or extended-release tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you are using this medicine on a regular schedule: If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have glaucoma, problems with urination, an enlarged prostate, kidney disease, an ulcer or other digestion problem, or a breathing problem such as chronic bronchitis, asthma, or emphysema.
  • This medicine may make you drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • Do not give this medicine to a child under 6 years old unless the child's doctor says it is okay.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Severe tiredness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Increased energy, restlessness, nervousness (more common in children).
  • Nausea, loss of appetite.
  • Dry mouth.
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