Chlorpheniramine Maleate
Chlorpheniramine maleate is a first-generation alkylamine antihistamine. It acts as a competitive histamine H1 receptor antagonist, blocking the effects of endogenous histamine to reduce allergic inflammatory responses. Because it readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, it is known to cause mild to moderate sedation and drowsiness.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage varies by age and indication. For adults and children 12 years and older, the typical dose is 4 mg orally every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 24 mg in 24 hours. For children aged 6 to 11, the dose is 2 mg every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 12 mg in 24 hours. Use with caution in children under 6, and do not use in infants or toddlers without medical advice.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated / Do not use
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Antihistamines should not be used in newborns, premature infants, or young infants due to risks of severe adverse effects such as respiratory depression.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Do not use OTC
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants under 2 years of age for over-the-counter use. Consult a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Do not use OTC
- Frequency
- Not applicable
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants under 2 years of age for over-the-counter use. Consult a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 1 mg
- Frequency
- Every 4 to 6 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Corresponds to typical weight for children 2 to 5 years. Maximum daily dose is 4 mg. Use under direct supervision of a healthcare provider.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 1 mg to 2 mg
- Frequency
- Every 4 to 6 hours
- Tracking Notes
- Corresponds to typical weight for children 4 to 6 years. Maximum daily dose is 6 mg. Use a precise dosing syringe or cup for oral liquids.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Contraindicated / Do not use | Not applicable | Antihistamines should not be used in newborns, premature infants, or young infants due to risks of severe adverse effects such as respiratory depression. |
| 5-7 kg | Do not use OTC | Not applicable | Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants under 2 years of age for over-the-counter use. Consult a pediatrician. |
| 8-10 kg | Do not use OTC | Not applicable | Safety and efficacy have not been established in infants under 2 years of age for over-the-counter use. Consult a pediatrician. |
| 11-15 kg | 1 mg | Every 4 to 6 hours | Corresponds to typical weight for children 2 to 5 years. Maximum daily dose is 4 mg. Use under direct supervision of a healthcare provider. |
| 16-20 kg | 1 mg to 2 mg | Every 4 to 6 hours | Corresponds to typical weight for children 4 to 6 years. Maximum daily dose is 6 mg. Use a precise dosing syringe or cup for oral liquids. |
Formulation
Purpose
Relief of symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis (hay fever), urticaria (hives), allergic conjunctivitis, and the common cold, including runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and itchy, watery eyes.
Generic Name
Chlorpheniramine MaleateBranded Drug Names
Chlorpheniramine Maleate is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.