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Chlorpheniramine (By mouth)

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

Treats hay fever, allergy, and cold symptoms.

Brand Name(s):

Aller-Chlor, Allergy, Allergy Relief, C.P.M. Tablets, Chlor-Phen, Chlor-Trimeton Allergy, ED Chlorphed Jr., ED-CHLOR-TAN, Ed ChlorPed, Foster&Thrive Allergy Relief, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Allergy, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Allergy Relief, Good Sense Allergy Relief, Pharbechlor, TopCare Allergy

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 medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
  • 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: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take 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  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. 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 use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.
  • 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.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 9/6/2024
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