Drugs

Chlorpheniramine: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects

Author Bowtie Team

Updated on 2025-12-10

Disclaimer: This article is translated with the assistance of AI.

Chlorpheniramine is a common medication used for allergy relief or easing cold symptoms. As an over-the-counter drug, it’s available at registered pharmacies. In this article, we’ll explain its uses, dosage instructions, and common side effects to avoid serious consequences from improper use.

What is Chlorpheniramine?

Chlorpheniramine is a sedating (first-generation) antihistamine drug, which is an over-the-counter medication. It is mainly used to prevent and relieve allergic symptoms such as skin allergies, hives, rashes caused by insect bites or chickenpox, hay fever, drug or food allergies. Chlorpheniramine also helps relieve cold symptoms such as runny nose, itching, watery eyes, and sneezing.

Who Should Not Take It?

The following individuals may experience adverse reactions after taking chlorpheniramine. It is recommended to consult professionals such as doctors or pharmacists before taking it:

Anyone sensitive to Chlorpheniramine/Dexchlorpheniramine
Those with respiratory diseases such as asthma
Heart disease
Poor liver or kidney function
History of epilepsy
Pregnant women, those planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding mothers
Hyperthyroidism
Those taking sleeping pills/other cold or flu medications

How to Take Chlorpheniramine (Method and Dosage)?

Chlorpheniramine must be taken according to the dosage instructions on the medication packaging label. Avoid long-term use or exceeding the recommended dosage. Chlorpheniramine is an oral medication, and the recommended dosages are as follows:

Adult dosage for colds/allergic rhinitis/allergic rashes
- 4mg every 4 to 6 hours
- Maximum dosage: 24mg per day
Dosage for children aged 12-17 for colds/allergic rhinitis/allergic rashes
- 4mg every 4 to 6 hours
- Maximum dosage: 24mg per day
Dosage for children aged 6-12 for colds/allergic rhinitis/allergic rashes
- 2mg every 4 to 6 hours
- Maximum dosage: 12mg per day

Common Side Effects of Chlorpheniramine

Common side effects of Chlorpheniramine include:

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Constipation
Stomach discomfort
Dry mouth, throat, and nose
Fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Blurred vision
Difficulty concentrating
Coordination problems

How to Store Chlorpheniramine

Chlorpheniramine should be stored in a cool and dry place. Unless specified on the medication label, it should not be stored in the refrigerator. Additionally, Chlorpheniramine should be kept out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which medications should not be taken with Chlorpheniramine?

Chlorpheniramine should not be taken with the following medications that cause drowsiness:

Sleeping pills
Narcotic pain relievers
Muscle relaxants
Antiepileptic drugs
Psychiatric medications such as anti-anxiety or antidepressant drugs

If you are taking Chinese herbal medicine or vitamin supplements, consult your doctor or pharmacist first.

What are the consequences of overdosing on Chlorpheniramine?

Overdosing on Chlorpheniramine can lead to serious side effects:

Central nervous system depression: Symptoms such as drowsiness, coma, or confusion.
Cardiovascular side effects: Palpitations, irregular heartbeat, high or low blood pressure.
Respiratory depression: Difficulty breathing or respiratory arrest.
Digestive system issues: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or indigestion.
Other side effects: Headache, insomnia, anxiety, tremors, or muscle twitching.

What are the contraindications for taking Chlorpheniramine?

Chlorpheniramine can cause drowsiness or affect alertness, so do not drive or operate machinery after taking it. Also, avoid alcohol, as it can enhance the sedative effects of antihistamines or increase the risk of side effects.

References

⚡Bowtie Pink Blog Promo!

Tired of sky-high private hospital bills but hesitant about purchasing VHIS? Bowtie Pink provides full coverage*, with long-term premiums are substantially lower than market rates^.

For a limited time, use the exclusive Bowtie Blog promo code【BLOGENGINSURE】to get an impressive 70% in first year’s premium and secure top-tier health protection at an unbeatable price!

^{*Full coverage shall mean no itemized benefit sub-limits, and applies to designated benefit items only. The benefit payable shall be subject to the remaining deductible (if applicable), annual benefit limit, lifetime benefit limit and other limitations such as reasonable and customary charges, a pre-existing condition, “List of Designated Hospitals in Mainland China” and receiving medical treatment in the United States. For detailed terms and conditions, product risks, and exclusions, please refer to the relevant product website and policy.}
^{^For example, with Bowtie Pink (Ward) and the deductible option HK$80,000, the monthly premium for a 30-year-old non-smoker is HK$197. The premium comparison above is based on similar medical insurance plans with the ward level (data source on 27, July 2023), HK$50,000 to HK$80,000 deductibles, for a 30-year-old non-smoker. Different medical insurance plans have different coverage and benefit limits. For details, please refer to the relevant insurance policy and its terms and conditions.}

Author

Bowtie Team

The Bowtie Life Insurance Company Limited is an authorized life insurance company and Hong Kong’s very first virtual insurer approved. Through the use of modern technology and medical expertise, Bowtie offers an agent-free, commission-free and more convenient online platform for customers to quote, apply and claim for Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS) anytime anywhere. Bowtie is ranked first in the direct channel sales throughout 2021. Stay up to date at www.bowtie.com.hk