Why is Chlorpheniramine Used?

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. It is a first-generation antihistamine and inhibits binding of histamine to type 1 histamine receptors, as well as other, unrelated receptors. With older antihistamines, such as chlorpheniramine, there is a higher incidence of sedation or nervous system depression than with newer second-generation antihistamines. Antihistamines compete with histamine for histamine receptor sites. By occupying the histamine receptor sites, they prevent histamine from its actions.

Chlorpheniramine is indicated in adults and children to temporarily relieve symptoms caused by hay fever and allergies (runny nose, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, scratchy nose or throat). Both prescription and nonprescription products containing chlorpheniramine exist. Chlorpheniramine is contained in a variety of cold, allergy, and cough products. It is available in a variety of dosage forms, including tablets, chewable tablets, elixir, oral suspension, and infant drops.