Chlorpheniramine + Dextromethorphan
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for dextromethorphan
Perennial Allergic Rhinitis , Cough ... show more
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Histamine-1 Receptor Antagonist and Sigma-1 Agonist and Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Chlorpheniramine is used to relieve allergy symptoms like sneezing and runny nose, which are common in allergic reactions. Dextromethorphan is used to suppress coughs that are not productive, meaning they do not bring up mucus. Together, they provide comprehensive relief for individuals experiencing both cough and allergy symptoms, improving comfort and quality of life during illness.
Chlorpheniramine works by blocking histamine, which is a chemical in the body that causes allergy symptoms like sneezing and itching. Dextromethorphan acts on the brain's cough center to suppress the urge to cough. Together, they provide a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms of colds and allergies, helping to improve comfort and quality of life.
The usual adult dose for chlorpheniramine is typically 4 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 24 mg per day. For dextromethorphan, the common dose is 10 to 20 mg every 4 hours, or 30 mg every 6 to 8 hours, with a maximum of 120 mg per day. Both medicines should be taken as directed on the package or by a healthcare provider.
Common side effects of chlorpheniramine include drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, which are typical of antihistamines. Dextromethorphan may cause dizziness, nausea, and sometimes drowsiness. Both medicines can cause drowsiness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery. Significant adverse effects, though rare, can include allergic reactions or severe dizziness.
Chlorpheniramine can interact with other sedatives, increasing drowsiness. Dextromethorphan should not be used with certain antidepressants due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by too much serotonin in the brain. Both medicines should be used cautiously in individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma. Always consult a healthcare provider for safe use.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan work?
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine, which means it works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, and runny nose. It helps to relieve these symptoms by preventing histamine from affecting the body. Dextromethorphan, on the other hand, is a cough suppressant, which means it works by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex. It helps to reduce the urge to cough, making it easier to rest. Both medicines are often used together in cold and cough remedies because they address different symptoms. While Chlorpheniramine targets allergy symptoms, Dextromethorphan focuses on reducing coughing. Together, they provide a more comprehensive relief from cold symptoms.
How effective is combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan?
Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine, which means it helps relieve allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant, which means it helps reduce coughing by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex. Both Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan are used to treat symptoms of the common cold and allergies. They are often combined in medications to provide comprehensive relief from multiple symptoms. The combination works effectively because Chlorpheniramine addresses allergy symptoms, while Dextromethorphan targets coughs, providing a broader range of symptom relief. Together, they help improve comfort during colds and allergies by reducing both cough and allergy symptoms, making them a popular choice for over-the-counter cold and allergy medications.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, is usually taken by adults in doses of 4 milligrams every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 24 milligrams per day. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant used to relieve coughs caused by the common cold or flu, is typically taken by adults in doses of 10 to 20 milligrams every 4 hours, or 30 milligrams every 6 to 8 hours, with a maximum of 120 milligrams per day. Both medicines are used to relieve symptoms of colds and allergies. Chlorpheniramine helps with sneezing and runny nose, while Dextromethorphan helps reduce coughing. They are often combined in cold medications to provide comprehensive relief. However, they should be used with caution, especially in people with certain medical conditions or those taking other medications.
How does one take combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food might help reduce stomach upset. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant used to relieve coughs caused by the common cold or flu, can also be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions for either medicine, but it's always a good idea to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness. Both medicines can cause drowsiness, so it's important to be cautious when driving or operating machinery. While Chlorpheniramine helps with allergy symptoms, Dextromethorphan specifically targets coughs. Despite their different uses, they are often combined in cold and flu medications to provide comprehensive relief.
For how long is combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan taken?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, is typically used for short-term relief, often just a few days, depending on the severity of symptoms. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant used to relieve coughs caused by the common cold or flu, is also used for short-term relief, usually for a few days until the cough subsides. Both medicines are often found in over-the-counter cold and allergy medications. They share the common attribute of providing temporary relief from symptoms, but they work in different ways. Chlorpheniramine blocks histamine, which is a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms, while Dextromethorphan works by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex. It's important to follow the dosage instructions on the package or given by a healthcare provider.
How long does it take for combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan to work?
The time it takes for a combination medicine to start working depends on the individual medicines it contains. For example, if the combination includes ibuprofen, which is a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory drug, it typically starts working within 20 to 30 minutes. If it includes paracetamol, which is another pain reliever, it usually begins to work within 30 to 60 minutes. Both medicines are used to relieve pain and reduce fever, which means they share these common attributes. However, ibuprofen also reduces inflammation, which is swelling and redness, while paracetamol does not. When combined, these medicines can provide a broader range of relief, addressing both pain and inflammation more effectively. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medicine's packaging.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, can cause side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. In some cases, it may lead to more serious effects such as confusion or difficulty urinating. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant, may cause dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness. Rarely, it can lead to serious effects like hallucinations or serotonin syndrome, which is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by too much serotonin in the brain. Both medications share common side effects like drowsiness and dizziness, making it important to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking them. However, Chlorpheniramine is more likely to cause dry mouth and urinary issues, while Dextromethorphan can lead to nausea and, in rare cases, hallucinations. It's important to use these medications as directed to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
Can I take combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan with other prescription drugs?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, can interact with other medications that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives or alcohol. This can increase drowsiness and slow down your reactions. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant, can interact with certain antidepressants, like MAO inhibitors, leading to a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome, which involves symptoms like confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure. Both Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan can cause drowsiness, so taking them together or with other sedatives can enhance this effect. They both should be used cautiously in people with certain medical conditions, such as asthma or liver disease. It's important to consult a healthcare provider before combining these medications with others to avoid harmful interactions.
Can I take combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan if I am pregnant?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, is generally considered safe during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. However, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider before using it. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant, is also considered relatively safe during pregnancy, but again, it is important to seek medical advice before use. Both medications are used to treat symptoms of colds and allergies, but they work in different ways. Chlorpheniramine blocks histamine, which is a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms, while Dextromethorphan works by suppressing the cough reflex in the brain. Both should be used with caution during pregnancy, and it is crucial to follow a healthcare provider's guidance to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.
Can I take combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan while breastfeeding?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. However, it may cause drowsiness in both the nursing mother and the baby. It's important to monitor the baby for any signs of unusual sleepiness or irritability. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant, is also considered safe for use during breastfeeding. It is unlikely to cause any adverse effects in breastfed infants when used in normal doses. Both medications share the common attribute of being used to relieve symptoms of colds and allergies. They are both considered relatively safe during breastfeeding, but it is always best to consult a healthcare provider before using any medication while nursing. Monitoring the baby for any side effects is crucial when taking these medications.
Who should avoid taking combination of Chlorpheniramine and Dextromethorphan?
Chlorpheniramine, which is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms, can cause drowsiness and should not be used with alcohol or other sedatives. It may also cause dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision. People with glaucoma, which is increased pressure in the eye, or urinary retention, which is difficulty in urinating, should avoid it. Dextromethorphan, which is a cough suppressant, can cause dizziness and should not be used with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants. It may also cause nausea and vomiting. People taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant, should not use it. Both medicines can cause drowsiness and should not be combined with alcohol or other sedatives. They should be used with caution in people with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, as they may worsen symptoms. Always consult a healthcare provider before using these medications.
