What is chlorphenamine and when should I take it?
Chlorphenamine is a sedating antihistamine medicine available over the counter in the UK, such as Piriton tablets or syrup, used to relieve symptoms of allergic conditions like hay fever, hives, itchy skin, runny nose, insect bites, and reactions to foods or medicines. Take it when you need relief from these allergy symptoms, such as after contact with triggers like pollen, animal hair, or bites, or regularly during hay fever season in spring and summer. Do not take it for longer than 2 weeks without speaking to your doctor, and follow the dose instructions on the packet.
Key points:
- It works by blocking histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions, with effects starting in 30-60 minutes and lasting 4-6 hours.
- Standard adult dose is 4 mg every 4-6 hours, up to a maximum of 24 mg in 24 hours.
- It often causes drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery after taking it.
- Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, elderly, or with certain health conditions.
This text has been fact-checked for accuracy by medino's clinical team.