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.
Mechanism of Action
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Dexchlorpheniramine maleate is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative side effects. Antihistamines appear to compete with histamine for cell receptor sites on effector cells.
Indications
- 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.
Common Doses
- 2 mg
- 1 mg
- 0.5 mg
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.
Contraindications
- 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. Use in Lower Respiratory Disease Antihistamines should NOT be used to treat lower respiratory tract symptoms including asthma.
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.
Interactions
- Drug Interaction MAO inhibitors prolong and intensify the anticholinergic (drying) effects of antihistamines.