Dexchlorpheniramine helps relieve symptoms of cold and allergy, such as runny nose, itch, watery eyes, and sneezing.
It also helps relieve allergic skin conditions such as hives.
This medicine may be used to treat other allergic conditions as decided by your doctor.
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 your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food.
Dexchlorpheniramine is available as a tablet, oral syrup or oral solution.
If you are taking the tablet, swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
If you are taking the oral syrup or oral solution, use the measuring spoon or cup provided to measure your dose.
The dose of Dexchlorpheniramine will be decided by your doctor.
You may stop taking Dexchlorpheniramine once you feel better unless your doctor has instructed you otherwise.
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.
Alert your doctor if you have asthma as Dexchlorpheniramine may not be suitable for you.
Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with this medicine.
Do not give this medicine to newborns and premature infants unless instructed by the doctor.
Do not take Dexchlorpheniramine if you are currently taking a medicine that is used to treat depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- history of asthma
- heart disease e.g. high blood pressure
- increased pressure in the eye
- prostate enlargement
- blockage in the stomach, intestine or urinary tract
- thyroid problem
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving Dexchlorpheniramine to a child or the elderly. Children and elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Dexchlorpheniramine may cause drowsiness, dizziness or impaired mental and physical abilities. 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: nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, dry mouth, tiredness, and numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and feet.
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 a medicine that is used to treat depression known as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine and tranylcypromine.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- medicines for sleep disorder
- strong painkillers
- blood-thinning medicines
- medicines for epilepsy (fits or seizures)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Dexchlorpheniramine.
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. Alcohol intake may worsen the dizziness and drowsiness caused by Dexchlorpheniramine.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.