Dexchlorpheniramine

Dosage Forms Available

• Dexchlorpheniramine is available in several formulations which can be taken orally including tablets, solutions, and syrup.

Age And Dose Restrictions

• Dexchlorpheniramine is approved for use in both adults and children.
• However, it should be used with caution in newborns or premature infants due to the risk of severe side effects.

Contraindications

• Dexchlorpheniramine is contraindicated in patients who have a known hypersensitivity to Dexchlorpheniramine or any of the inactive ingredients found in this medication.

Other Medications To Avoid With This Medicine

• Dexchlorpheniramine may interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs such as isocarboxazid and selegiline), sedatives (like pentobarbital and zaleplon), tranquillizers (like alprazolam and diazepam), anticholinergics (like atropine and doxylamine), and certain tricyclic antidepressants (like nortriptyline and doxepin).

Overdose And Missed Dose

• Overdosing on Dexchlorpheniramine can lead to symptoms such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, dilated pupils, flushing, fever, dry mouth, rapid heart rate, and urinary retention. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought.
• If you miss a dose of Dexchlorpheniramine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra medicine to compensate for the missed dose.

Management Of Side Effects

Most side effects of Dexchlorpheniramine are temporary, generally mild, and resolve upon discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water can help manage dry mouth, a common side effect.
• If you experience constipation, increasing dietary fibre and staying hydrated may help.

Use In Driving And Operating Machinery

• Dexchlorpheniramine may cause drowsiness and dizziness, affecting your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how this medicine affects you.

Use In Pregnancy And Lactation

• Dexchlorpheniramine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the foetus. Avoid use in the third trimester.
• Consult your doctor before using Dexchlorpheniramine if you are breastfeeding.

Caution In Other Conditions

• Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, peptic ulcer, symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy, or bladder neck obstruction need to exercise caution when using Dexchlorpheniramine.
• Similarly, patients with asthma, hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular disease, or hypertension should also be cautious when using this medication.

Special Dietary And Lifestyle Recommendation

• If you are managing allergies, regular sleep is essential, as sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system and exacerbate allergy symptoms.
• Avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke can also reduce the severity of allergy symptoms.