Chlorpheniramine Maleate is an alkylamine antihistamine. It is one of the most potent histamine H1-receptor blocking agents which is used as a potent antihistamine. This generally causes less sedation than promethazine. Chlorpheniramine Maleate exerts its effects by blocking H1-receptor competitively.

Chlorpheniramine Maleate is indicated in the following indications-

• Urticaria
• Sensitivity reactions
• Angioneurotic edema
• Vasomotor rhinitis
• Cough
• Common cold
• Motion sickness and
• Other allergic conditions.

Adult- Usual adult dose is 4 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 24 mg daily.

Child-

• 6-12 years: 2 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 12 mg daily.
• 2-5 years: 1 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 6 mg daily.
• 1-2 years: 1 mg twice daily.

Below 1 year the use of Chlorpheniramine Maleate is not recommended.

Chlorpheniramine is contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to this agent, in newborn or premature infants.

Chlorpheniramine is well-tolerated, but sometimes drowsiness, dizziness, muscular weakness, and gastrointestinal upset may occur.

Overdose Effects

CNS depression (including sedation, apnea, CV collapse), CNS stimulation (including insomnia, hallucination, tremors, convulsions), tinnitus, blurred vision, dizziness, ataxia, hypotension. Stimulation and atropine-like signs and symptoms (including dry mouth, fixed dilated pupils, flushing, hyperthermia, Gl symptoms) are more likely in children.

Chlorpheniramine should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma and prostatic hypertrophy. During therapy with chlorpheniramine, caution should be taken in driving vehicles and operating machinery.

Pregnancy & Lactation

This drug should not be used in lactating mother and in pregnancy especially during the first trimester of pregnancy.