Dexchlorpheniramine helps relieve symptoms of cold and allergy, such as runny nose, itch, watery eyes and sneezing. It also helps relieve symptoms of allergic skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema and insect bites.
Take Dexchlorpheniramine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by the doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Dexchlorpheniramine is available as a tablet or as syrup.
If you are taking the tablet, swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
If you are taking the syrup, use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
You may stop taking Dexchlorpheniramine when you no longer have cold or allergies.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Do not give Dexchlorpheniramine to premature and newborn babies or children below 2 years old unless instructed to do so by the doctor.
Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with this medicine.
This medicine should not be used to treat symptoms of lung diseases including asthma.
Do not take Dexchlorpheniramine if you are currently taking or have taken medicines used to treat depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- heart disease e.g. high blood pressure, chest pain
- increased pressure in the eye
- obstruction of the stomach outlet
- stomach ulcer
- bladder or prostate problems
- thyroid disorder
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Dexchlorpheniramine to an elderly. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Dexchlorpheniramine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.
Other side effects may include any of the following: dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, hypotension, and dry eyes.
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Dexchlorpheniramine if you are currently taking or have taken medicines used to treat depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine in the last 14 days.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if your taking medicines for anxiety, panic disorder and difficulty sleeping (e.g. clonazepam, diazepam, alprazolam, zolpidem).
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.