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- What is chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- What are the uses for chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
- What are the side effects of chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
- What is the dosage for chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
- What else should I know about chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
What is chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Deconamine was a brand name medication that contains two different drugs, an antihistamine (chlorpheniramine) and a decongestant (pseudoephedrine). The antihistamine effects of chlorpheniramine account for its effect of reducing allergy symptoms. The decongestant action of pseudoephedrine is a result of blood vessel constriction in the nasal air passages, such as in the nose or sinuses. Brand name and generic formulations of combination products containing only chlorpheniramine and pseudoephedrine have been discontinued in the U. S., most likely due to the regulation of pseudoephedrine distribution.
Is chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: No
Do I need a prescription for chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
What are the side effects of chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
Side effects of antihistamines include:
- impaired ability to accurately operate machinery,
- worsening of glaucoma,
- worsening of asthma or chronic lung diseases,
- dry mouth or throat,
- low blood counts,
- ringing in the ears,
- stomach upset, and
- urinary frequency or difficulty.
Other important side effects of pseudoephedrine include stimulation of the nervous system leading to:
What is the dosage for chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
The combination drug may be taken with or without food. It must be used cautiously in patients with heart (coronary artery) disease and angina, diabetes, lung diseases, especially asthma, glaucoma, and narrowing of the stomach exit (pyloric stenosis).
Which drugs or supplements interact with chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
The combination drug can cause drowsiness and impaired ability to operate machinery. It contains pseudoephedrine which should not be taken with MAO inhibitors drugs. Caution must be exercised in the administration of this drug to patients with heart or lung disease. The combination drug should not be combined with other drugs containing pseudoephedrine (such as Sudafed) because of increased risk of side effects on the heart and blood vessels. While misuse of the combination drug for the purpose of getting "high" is unfamiliar to the editors, it is a specific warning from the manufacturer that patients be aware of possible "additive" effects of the drug when taken with alcohol and other central nervous depressants (such as sedatives and tranquilizers). This means that when the drug is taken with, for example, alcohol, the effect of the alcohol could be magnified. Conversely, alcohol increases the sedating qualities of Deconamine.
What else should I know about chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine?
What preparations of chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine are available?
Tablets of 4 mg chlorpheniramine/60 mg pseudoephedrine; chew tabs of 1 mg c/15 mg p; syrup of 2 mg c/30 mg p.
How should I keep chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine stored?
Combinations of chlorpheniramine and pseudoephedrine should be stored at room temperature in an air-tight container.
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Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)
Sinus infection (sinusitis) is caused by allergies, infection, and chemicals or other irritants of sinuses. Signs and symptoms are headache, fever, and facial tenderness, pressure, or pain. Treatments of sinus infections are generally with antibiotics and at times, home remedies.
Chronic Rhinitis and Post-Nasal Drip
Chronic rhinitis and post-nasal drip symptoms include an itchy, runny nose, sneezing, itchy ears, eyes, and throat. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (also called hay fever) usually is caused by pollen in the air. Perennial allergic rhinitis is a type of chronic rhinitis and is a year-round problem, often caused by indoor allergens, such as dust, animal dander, and pollens that may exist at the time. Treatment of chronic rhinitis and post nasal drip are dependent upon the type of rhinitis condition.
Itch (Itching or Pruritus)
Itching can be a common problem. Itches can be localized or generalized. There are many causes of itching to include: infection (jock itch, vaginal itch), disease (hyperthyroidism, liver or kidney), reactions to drugs, and skin infestations (pubic or body lice). Treatment for itching varies depending on the cause of the itch.
The common cold (viral upper respiratory tract infection) is a contagious illness that may be caused by various viruses. Symptoms include a stuffy nose, headache, cough, sore throat, and maybe a fever. Antibiotics have no effect upon the common cold, and there is no evidence that zinc and vitamin C are effective treatments.
An allergy refers to a misguided reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. When these allergens come in contact with the body, it causes the immune system to develop an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to it. It is estimated that 50 million North Americans are affected by allergic conditions. The parts of the body that are prone to react to allergies include the eyes, nose, lungs, skin, and stomach. Common allergic disorders include hay fever, asthma, allergic eyes, allergic eczema, hives, and allergic shock.
Hay Fever (Allergic Rhinitis)
Hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is an irritation of the nose caused by pollen and is associated with the following allergic symptoms: nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, eye and nose itching, and tearing eyes. Avoidance of known allergens is the recommended treatment, but if this is not possible, antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays may help alleviate symptoms.
Teen Drug Abuse
Drugs commonly abused by teens include tobacco products, marijuana, cold medications, inhalants, depressants, stimulants, narcotics, hallucinogens, PCP, ketamine, Ecstasy, and anabolic steroids. Some of the symptoms and warning signs of teen drug abuse include reddened whites of eyes, paranoia, sleepiness, excessive happiness, seizures, memory loss, increased appetite, discolored fingertips, lips or teeth, and irritability. Treatment of drug addiction may involve a combination of medication, individual, and familial interventions.
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