Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate

Generic Name: dexchlorpheniramine maleate

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Corphena

DESCRIPTION Each 5 mL (teaspoonful) contains: Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate, USP 2 mg Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate, USP, an antihistamine agent, is a white, odorless crystalline powder that is freely soluble in water. The molecular formula is C 16 H 19 ClN 2 ∙ C 4 H 4 O 4 , designated chemically as (+)-2-[p-Chloro-α-[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl]benzyl] pyridine maleate (1:1). M.W. = 390.86 Inactive Ingredients: Citric acid, cherry flavoring, FD&C Red No.

Overview

DESCRIPTION Each 5 mL (teaspoonful) contains: Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate, USP 2 mg Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate, USP, an antihistamine agent, is a white, odorless crystalline powder that is freely soluble in water. The molecular formula is C 16 H 19 ClN 2 ∙ C 4 H 4 O 4 , designated chemically as (+)-2-[p-Chloro-α-[2-(dimethylamino)ethyl]benzyl] pyridine maleate (1:1). M.W. = 390.86 Inactive Ingredients: Citric acid, cherry flavoring, FD&C Red No.

Uses

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis Vasomotor rhinitis Allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods Mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma Dermographism As therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.

Dosage

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION DOSAGE SHOULD BE INDIVIDUALIZED ACCORDING TO THE NEEDS AND THE RESPONSE OF THE PATIENT. Recommended Dosage Adults and Children 12 years of age and older: 2 mg (1 teaspoonful) Children 6 to 11 years: 1 mg (1/2 teaspoonful) Children 2 to 5 years: 0.5 mg (1/4 teaspoonful) Doses are generally given every 4 to 6 hours.

Side Effects

ADVERSE REACTIONS General: Urticaria, drug rash, anaphylactic shock, photosensitivity, excessive perspiration, chills, dryness of mouth, nose and the throat. Cardiovascular System: Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis. Hematologic System: Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis. Nervous System: Sedation, sleepiness, dizziness, disturbed coordination, fatigue, confusion, restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, irritability, insomnia, euphoria, paresthesias, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus, acute labyrinthitis, hysteria, neuritis, convulsions. G.I. System: Epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation. G.U. System: Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses.

Interactions

Drug Interaction MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic (drying) effects of antihistamines.

Warnings

WARNINGS Antihistamines should be used with considerable caution in patients with: Narrow angle glaucoma Stenosing peptic ulcer Pyloroduodenal obstruction Symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy Bladder neck obstruction Use in Children In infants and children, especially, antihistamines in overdosage may cause hallucinations, convulsions, or death. As in adults, antihistamines may diminish mental alertness in children. In the young child, particularly, they may produce excitation. Use in Pregnancy Experience with this drug in pregnant women is inadequate to determine whether there exists a potential for harm to the developing fetus. Use with CNS Depressants CORPHENA Oral Solution has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.). CONTRAINDICATIONS - Use in Newborn or Premature Infants This drug should not be used in newborn or premature infants. Use in Nursing Mothers Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally and for newborns and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers.

Storage

RECOMMENDED STORAGE Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP, with child-resistant closure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate used for?

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Perennial and seasonal allergic rhinitis Vasomotor rhinitis Allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods Mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema Amelioration of allergic reactions to blood or plasma Dermographism As therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled.

What are the side effects of Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate?

ADVERSE REACTIONS General: Urticaria, drug rash, anaphylactic shock, photosensitivity, excessive perspiration, chills, dryness of mouth, nose and the throat. Cardiovascular System: Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis. Hematologic System: Hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, agranulocytosis. Nervous System: Sedation, sleepiness, dizziness, disturbed coordination, fatigue, confusion, restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, irritability, insomnia, euphoria, paresthesias, blurred vision, diplopia, vertigo, tinnitus, acute labyrinthitis, hysteria, neuritis, convulsions. G.I. System: Epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation. G.U. System: Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses.

What are the important warnings for Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate?

WARNINGS Antihistamines should be used with considerable caution in patients with: Narrow angle glaucoma Stenosing peptic ulcer Pyloroduodenal obstruction Symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy Bladder neck obstruction Use in Children In infants and children, especially, antihistamines in overdosage may cause hallucinations, convulsions, or death. As in adults, antihistamines may diminish mental alertness in children. In the young child, particularly, they may produce excitation. Use in Pregnancy Experience with this drug in pregnant women is inadequate to determine whether there exists a potential for harm to the developing fetus. Use with CNS Depressants CORPHENA Oral Solution has additive effects with alcohol and other CNS depressants (hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.). CONTRAINDICATIONS - Use in Newborn or Premature Infants This drug should not be used in newborn or premature infants. Use in Nursing Mothers Because of the higher risk of antihistamines for infants generally and for newborns and prematures in particular, antihistamine therapy is contraindicated in nursing mothers.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.