Antihistamines: Chlor-Trimeton

Chlor-Trimeton is one of the many popular allergy medicines on the market. It is an over-the-counter drug which comes in 4, 8 or 12- hour formulas. This drug was created by the company, Schering-Plough, which also created the famous Claritin. This allergy relieving medicine uses the active ingredient, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, usually in 4 milligrams for the average dose. Relying on its ability to compete with the naturally produced histamine, which is what causes us to swell up, secrete mucous and generally feel cloudy, Chlor-Trimeton can be effective in reducing allergy symptoms. In other words, this antihistamine medicine is effective at reducing sneezing, coughing, itching, runny nose, watery eyes and other respiratory or hay fever symptoms. The tablets are yellow, and include a 44 over 194 engraved onto one side. They are also packaged in unit dose blister packages in 10 strips of 10 tablets each.

Side effects for Chlor-Trimeton are similar to other allergy relieving medicines. The bronchials can sometimes thicken and the mouth can get dry. Also, reported in a small percentage were headaches, fatigue, drowsiness, excitability, and dizziness. The stomach can also experience some adverse reactions from Chlor-Trimeton. Nausea, diarrhea, bloating, stomach cramping and increased appetite have occurred for some people. An all-over weakness of the body has been reported as well. Luckily, these symptoms only affect 1 to 10% of users.

The standard precautions found with many drugs are also given to this drug. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid this medicine. People using MAOI inhibitors for depression or other conditions are warned to not take Chlor-Trimeton. If one has emphysema or another bronchial condition, glaucoma, or prostrate difficulties, one is advised to seek counsel from their doctor first. Mixing this medicine with alcohol, or other drugs, is not recommended at all. Caution is also to be used if one is to use an automobile.

Fans of Chlor-Trimeton say that this allergy medicine is extremely successful at relieving their symptoms. Particular success is reported with itchy eyes and throat. Also, a runny nose combined with a nighttime throat tickle are relieved easily by this medicine. Likewise, some claim that the effects do not last as long as they would like. The dry mouth that is reported with many antihistamines has also been reported with this medicine. Suggestions for relieving this small side effect include drinking plenty of water and chewing gum. Overall, however, Chlor-Trimeton offers effective control of many allergy and cold symptoms.