Chlorpheniramine tablets
Chlopheniramine Maleate BP
What it does
Chlopheniramine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms.
Commonly used for: allergies, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), itchy or runny nose, sneezing
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
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Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-03-12 00:02:47 · updated 2026-09-24 03:34:36
About this medicine
Chlopheniramine is an antihistamine that helps relieve allergy symptoms.
What it treats
- allergies
- hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
- itchy or runny nose
- sneezing
How it works
It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.
Who it's for
It is suitable for adults and children experiencing allergy symptoms.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: chlopheniramine
Chlopheniramine is an antihistamine belonging to the alkylamine class. It is primarily used for the relief of symptoms associated with allergic conditions such as hay fever and urticaria, as well as for the common cold. By blocking histamine H1 receptors, it reduces symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose.
Indications
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Urticaria (hives)
- Allergic conjunctivitis
- Common cold symptoms
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Chlopheniramine exerts its effects by competitively inhibiting the binding of histamine to H1 receptors. This action prevents the typical allergic responses mediated by histamine, including vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and sensory nerve stimulation.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of chlopheniramine are characterized by its ability to alleviate allergic symptoms, including nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, and pruritus. It may also have mild sedative effects due to its central nervous system penetration, although it is generally less sedating compared to other first-generation antihistamines.
Pharmacokinetics
Chlopheniramine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration. It is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by N-demethylation and hydroxylation. The elimination half-life ranges from 12 to 15 hours, and it is excreted primarily in urine as metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to chlopheniramine or any of its components
- Asthma exacerbations
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Prostatic hypertrophy
- Bladder neck obstruction
Adverse effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Urinary retention
- Nausea
Interactions
- CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines) may enhance sedative effects
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may increase the risk of hypertensive crisis
- Anticholinergic drugs may increase the risk of adverse effects
Precautions
- Caution in patients with a history of seizures
- Caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity
- Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease
- May impair the ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness
Pregnancy
Chlopheniramine is classified as Category B. Animal studies have not shown harm to the fetus, but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.
Breast-feeding
Chlopheniramine is excreted in breast milk. Caution is advised when administering to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Syrup
- Extended-release tablets
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.
This drug in other countries
The same active ingredient registered across other registries we cover - including different brands.