Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Introduction To Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Chlorpheniramine Maleate is an anti-allergic medication used in the treatment of various allergic conditions. It works by blocking the action of histamine and provides relief from symptoms such runny nose, sneezing, itching, skin rashes, and watery eyes.
The most common side effect of this medicine is drowsiness. Other side effects include the inability to concentrate, lethargy, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Avoid driving or activities that need a lot of attention while taking this medicine. If any of the side effects bother you, let your doctor know. There may be ways of reducing or preventing them.
The most common side effect of this medicine includes burning at the site of application, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Avoid driving or attention- seeking activity. If these bother you or appear serious, let your doctor know. There may be ways of reducing or preventing them. In some cases, it may cause dryness of mouth, so it is advised to drink more water, always carry sugar candy or maintain oral hygiene.
Before taking this medicine, let your doctor know if you have glaucoma or have any gastro related issues, or have high blood pressure. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, or breastfeeding. Your doctor should also know about all other medicines you are taking as many of these may make this medicine less effective or change the way it works. Generally, it is advised to avoid alcohol while on treatment.
Uses of Chlorpheniramine Maleate
- Treatment of Allergic conditions
Benefits of Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Treatment of Allergic conditions
Chlorpheniramine Maleate is used to treat many different inflammatory and allergic
conditions such as conjunctivitis and conditions which affect the skin such as
urticaria. It works by lowering your immune system’s response to these
conditions and prevents the release of substances in the body that cause
inflammation. It helps relieve symptoms such as swelling, pain, itching, and
other allergic-type reactions. If you are not sure why you are being given
this medicine, ask your doctor.
It is given as an injection by a doctor or nurse and should not be self- administered. Taking this medicine enables you to live your life more freely without worrying so much about things that set off your symptoms. Because this medicine weakens your immune system, you should avoid being near people who are ill or have infections.
Side effects of Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of CPM
- Drowsiness
- Inability to concentrate
- Lethargy
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
How to use Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.
How Chlorpheniramine Maleate works
Chlorpheniramine Maleate is an antiallergic medication. When your body is exposed to an allergen (pollen, animal dander, house dust etc.), it produces a chemical called histamine. This causes watery eyes, runny or blocked nose, sneezing, skin rashes, itching etc. Chlorpheniramine Maleate works by blocking the action of histamine, thereby relieving these symptoms.
Safety Advice
PregnancySAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Chlorpheniramine Maleate if I’m pregnant?
Chlorpheniramine Maleate is generally considered safe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low or no adverse effects to the developing baby; however, there are limited human studies.
BreastfeedingSAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Chlorpheniramine Maleate if I’m breastfeeding?
Chlorpheniramine Maleate is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby. Larger doses or prolonged use of Chlorpheniramine Maleate may cause sleepiness and other effects in the baby
AlcoholUNSAFE
Is drinking alcohol while taking Chlorpheniramine Maleate safe?
Chlorpheniramine Maleate may cause excessive drowsiness with alcohol.
DrivingUNSAFE
Can I drive after taking Chlorpheniramine Maleate?
Chlorpheniramine Maleate may decrease alertness, affect your vision or make you feel sleepy and dizzy. Do not drive if these symptoms occur.
KidneySAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Chlorpheniramine Maleate if I have/had kidney diseases?
Chlorpheniramine Maleate is probably safe to use in patients with kidney disease. Limited data available suggests that dose adjustment of Chlorpheniramine Maleate may not be needed in these patients. Please consult your doctor. Use of Chlorpheniramine Maleate may cause excessive sleepiness in patients with end stage kidney disease.
LiverCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Chlorpheniramine Maleate if I have/had liver diseases?
There is limited information available on the use of Chlorpheniramine Maleate in patients with liver disease. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Chlorpheniramine Maleate good for relieving allergy symptoms?
Chlorpheniramine Maleate helps control the symptoms of cold or allergies such as red, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and runny nose.
Q. Does Chlorpheniramine Maleate cause sleepiness?
One of the most common side effects of this medicine is sedation or sleepiness, which can range from slight drowsiness to deep sleep. It is therefore advisable to avoid driving or operating any machinery if you get these side effects.
Q. Can I take Cetrizine along with Chlorpheniramine Maleate?
Using Cetirizine together with Chlorpheniramine Maleate may increase side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Always consult your doctor before taking any medicines along with Chlorpheniramine Maleate; self-medication can be risky.
Q. Can I take Paracetamol with Chlorpheniramine Maleate?
Yes, you can take Paracetamol with Chlorpheniramine Maleate after consulting your doctor.
Q. Can I take alcohol along with Chlorpheniramine Maleate?
Avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking Chlorpheniramine Maleate since it increases the risks of side effects like sleepiness, dizziness, and nausea. Talk to your doctor in case of any doubts.
Q. How to get relief from nausea while taking Chlorpheniramine Maleate?
In order to reduce nausea while taking this medicine, avoid food that is salty, spicy, fried, or fatty. Drink plenty of liquids and eat smaller, more frequent meals.
Q. What happens if I miss a dose of Chlorpheniramine Maleate?
If you happen to miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose. Discuss this with your healthcare provider. In order to avoid missing a dose, use a calendar, pillbox, alarm clock, or cell phone alert to help you remember to take your medication. You may also ask a family member a friend to remind you or check in with you to be sure you are taking your medication.
Q. What lifestyle changes help with hay fever and other allergies?
The best way to prevent any sort of allergic reaction is to avoid the substance (dust, pet fur, and hair, insect bites, food allergies) that you're allergic to if you can. If you have hay fever, try not to spend too much time outside when the pollen count is high. Shower and change your clothes after you have been outside to wash off pollen. Wear a mask to cover your nose, mouth and wear wraparound sunglasses to stop dust from getting into your eyes whenever you step outside.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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