Chlorphenamine (Piriton)
Chlorphenamine (Piriton) Fact Card
Chlorphenamine is a quick acting, sedating antihistamine.
| Brand Names | Piriton |
| Used For | Treatment of allergic reactions, allergic rashes, itchy skin and hayfever |
| Doseage | Adults 4mg up to 6 times in 24 hours |
| Side Effects | Sedating |
| Warnings | Avoid taking with sedative medications or alcohol |
| Pregnancy | Avoid unless your doctor recommends |
Chlorphenamine is a type of antihistamine and belongs to the subclass of antihistamines known as "sedative antihistamines" as it commonly causes tiredness.
What is Chlorphenamine (Piriton) used to treat?
It is used for the relief of allergic symptoms such as hay fever, urticaria (skin rash), food and drug allergy and itchiness (for example the itch you get with chicken pox)
How does Chlorphenamine (Piriton) work?
Some people can produce an excessive amount of histamine, which is a chemical in the body, in response to triggers such as pollen, pet fur, nuts, shellfish or insect bites. When histamine is produced to excess, we experience allergic symptoms such as swelling, skin rashes, watery eyes, sneezing, congested nose or runny nose.
How do I take Chlorphenamine (Piriton)?
The recommended dose of Chlorphenamine in a healthy adult is 4 mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 6 doses in 24 hours. Children can take this medication too at a reduced dose.
Side effects of Chlorphenamine (Piriton)
The most common side effects of this medication is blurred vision, dry mouth, tummy upset, headaches, difficulty passing urine and feeling drowsy or sleepy.
Things to avoid
It is important to avoid alcohol with this type of medication as it can cause excessive drowsiness
For similar reasons other sedative medications such as hypnotics or anxiolytics (eg Diazepam) should be avoided.
Chlorphenamine (Piriton) and alcohol
Best to avoid taking with alcohol due to sedative effects in combination
Can I take Chlorphenamine (Piriton) when pregnant?
It is best to avoid taking this medication when pregnant.
Chlorphenamine (Piriton) and breastfeeding
Manufacturers suggest avoiding Chlorphenamine as it will be present in breast milk in varying amounts, but it is not known to be harmful.
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See a doctor about chlorphenamine (piriton) nowPlease note. This site is for information only. If you are taking any medications please follow the instructions given by your doctor. Should you have an adverse reaction to any medication please seek medical advice.
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