Chlorpheniramine extended-release tablets or capsules
Chlorpheniramine extended-release tablets or capsules
What is this medicine?
CHLORPHENIRAMINE (klor fen IR a meen) is an antihistamine. It is used to treat sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes from allergies or a cold. It is also used to treat the symptoms an allergic reaction. This medicine will not treat an infection.
How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not cut, crush or chew this medicine. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Patients over 60 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
changes in vision
confused, agitated, nervous
fast, irregular heartbeat
feeling faint, dizzy
seizures
tremor
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
unusual sweating
unusually weak or tired
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
constipation or diarrhea
drowsy
dry mouth, nose, throat
headache
loss of appetite
stomach upset, vomiting
trouble sleeping
What may interact with this medicine?
alcohol
barbiturate medicines for sleep or treating seizures
MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
medicines for allergies
medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances
medicines for sleep
some antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, gentamicin, imipenem, vancomycin
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
glaucoma
heart disease
high blood pressure
lung or breathing disease, like asthma
pain or difficulty passing urine
prostate trouble
ulcers or other stomach problems
an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorpheniramine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
This medicine may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses you may feel some discomfort. Lubricating drops may help. See your eye doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
Updated:  
July 17, 2018