Chlorpheniramine De' medicine for Cold

Gosh. Lately the weather has been insanely crazy. One moment it went up to as hot as 38 degree and another moment as cold as 28 degree. Due to climate changes, many were unable to get used to it hence fell ill.  So my thoughts on sharing some general information on the medicine you might be taking!

Why is this medication prescribed?

Chlorpheniramine relieves red, itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; itchy nose or throat; and runny nose caused by allergies, hay fever, and the common cold. Chlorpheniramine helps control the symptoms of cold or allergies but will not treat the cause of the symptoms or speed recovery. Chlorpheniramine is in a class of medications called antihistamines. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking chlorpheniramine,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to chlorpheniramine, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in the chlorpheniramine product you plan to use. Check the package label for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: other medications for colds, hay fever, or allergies; medications for anxiety, depression, or seizures; muscle relaxants; narcotic medications for pain; sedatives; sleeping pills; and tranquilizers.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had asthma, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or other types of lung disease; glaucoma (a condition in which increased pressure in the eye can lead to gradual loss of vision); ulcers; diabetes; difficulty urinating (due to an enlarged prostate gland); heart disease; high blood pressure; seizures; or an overactive thyroid gland.
• tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking chlorpheniramine, call your doctor.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking chlorpheniramine.
• you should know that this medication may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• ask your doctor about the safe use of alcohol while you are taking chlorpheniramine. Alcohol can make the side effects of chlorpheniramine worse.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, continue your normal diet. Best taken after food.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Chlorpheniramine is usually taken as needed. If your doctor has told you to take chlorpheniramine regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one

What side effects can this medication cause?

Chlorpheniramine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

·         drowsiness

·         dry mouth, nose, and throat

·         nausea

·         vomiting

·         loss of appetite

·         constipation

·         headache

·         increased chest congestion

Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

·         vision problems