Dexchlorpheniramine Maleate Information

DEXCHLORPHENIRAMINE is an antihistamine. It is used to treat itching and runny nose from allergies or a cold. It is also used to treat skin rash, hives, itching, and other symptoms of an allergic reaction. This medicine will not treat an infection.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions: -asthma, other lung disease -glaucoma -heart disease, high blood pressure -irregular heart beat -liver disease -prostate trouble -trouble passing urine -ulcers or other stomach problems -an unusual or allergic reaction to dexchlorpheniramine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives -pregnant or trying to get pregnant -breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. You can take this medicine with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply. Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What may interact with this medicine?

-alcohol -MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate -medicines that make you drowsy, sleepy -other medicines for cold, cough or allergy

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor or healthcare professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse. You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks. This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: -allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue -agitated, nervous, excitable -breathing problems -changes in vision -fast, irregular heartbeat -seizures -trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine -unusually weak or tired Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): -dry mouth, nose, throat -headache -sleepy -stomach upset, nausea -difficulty sleeping.