Category- Allopathy
Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1. To reduce nasal and sinus congestion (blocked/stuffy nose) 2. To decreases runny nose & sneezing 3. Helps ease sinus pressure/headache related to congestion |
| Common Side Effects | 1. Drowsiness or sleepiness 2. Dry mouth 3. Headache 4. Dizziness 5. Restlessness 6. Nausea |
| Additional Information | 1. Avoid consuming alcohol and tobacco with this medicine 2. Drink plenty of water to help loosen mucus. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | The medicine should be taken orally |
BrandName Uses
BrandName is an oral combination medicine that works as a decongestant and antihistamine. This medicine is used to prevent and treat conditions like:
- Nasal and sinus congestion (blocked/stuffy nose)
- Runny nose & sneezing
- Sinus pressure/headache related to congestion
Directions for use
- Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time each day.
- Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.
- If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
BrandName side effects
More Common
- Drowsiness or sleepiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Restlessness
- Nausea
Less Common
- Increased heart rate / palpitations
- High blood pressure
- Difficulty urinating (especially in prostate issues)
- Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing trouble)
- Blurred vision
How BrandName works
Phenylephrine works by stimulating alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in the nasal blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction and reducing swelling, which relieves nasal and sinus congestion. Chlorpheniramine maleate acts by blocking H₁ histamine receptors, preventing the effects of histamine released during allergies. Together, they reduce runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal blockage, providing overall relief from cold and allergy symptoms.
Safety Measures and Warning
Allergy/Hypersensitivity
Avoid this medicine if you are allergic to this medicine, or similar medicines, as it may cause rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Heart or Blood Pressure Problems
People with high blood pressure, heart disease, or irregular heartbeat should avoid it because Phenylephrine can raise blood pressure and strain the heart.
Liver Problems
Those with liver disease should be cautious, as this medicine is processed by the liver and may worsen liver function. Always communicate with your doctor regarding your past disease history.
Thyroid or Diabetes Issues
People with overactive thyroid or diabetes should consult a doctor first, as Phenylephrine may affect heart rate or blood sugar.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Only take if prescribed by a doctor, as safety is not fully established, so it should be used only if clearly needed.
Young Children (below 6 years)
Children are more sensitive to medicines. Phenylephrine can cause rapid heartbeat and restlessness. Parents should use pediatric cold medicines only on a doctor’s advice.
Prostate Enlargement
Men who have prostate enlargement or difficulty passing urine should avoid this medicine because it can make urination even more difficult. They need a doctor suggested alternative.
Glaucoma
People with glaucoma should not take this combo because it can increase pressure inside the eyes, leading to eye pain or blurred vision. They should use cold medicines that are safe for eye conditions.
Severe Asthma
People with severe asthma or breathing problems should not use this because it can make mucus thicker and breathing more difficult. They should use asthma-safe cold medicines recommended by a doctor.
BrandName Interaction with Food Product
Avoid alcohol while taking BrandName because it can make you more sleepy and dizzy. Limit caffeine like coffee, tea, and energy drinks as it may increase restlessness and fast heartbeat. Heavy or oily meals may slow down the medicine’s effect, so lighter meals are better. Drink plenty of water to reduce the dryness of the mouth and throat.
BrandName Interaction with Other Medicines
Avoid taking BrandName with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
BrandName Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name
Phenylephrine: 3-[(1R)-1-hydroxy-2-(methylamino)ethyl]phenol
Chlorpheniramine: 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-N, N-dimethyl-3-pyridin-2-ylpropan-1-amine
Intake routine/cycle
Daily dose
Take BrandName exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
Overdose
Do not take BrandName more than the prescribed dose per day. Overdosing may causes nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, headache, low blood pressure, drowsiness, restlessness, or in rare cases, seizures and breathing difficulty. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these occur.
Storage
- Store the medicine at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep out of reach of children
BrandName Summary
BrandName is a combination medicine used to relieve symptoms of cold and allergies, such as a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and sinus congestion. Phenylephrine works by shrinking the blood vessels in the nose, which helps clear nasal and sinus blockage, while Chlorpheniramine blocks the effect of histamine, reducing sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, restlessness, or nausea. Rare but serious side effects can include high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, allergic reactions, or difficulty urinating.
This medicine should not be taken by people with high blood pressure, heart problems, glaucoma, prostate issues, severe asthma, children below the recommended age, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or anyone taking certain psychiatric medicines (like MAO inhibitors) unless a doctor advises it. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, and limit caffeine to prevent restlessness or fast heartbeat. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dose and timing.
FAQ’s
What are the uses of BrandName drops?
They are used to relieve symptoms of cold and allergies, such as runny or blocked nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and sinus congestion.
Who should not take BrandName drops?
People with high blood pressure, heart problems, glaucoma, prostate issues, severe asthma, children below the recommended age, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and anyone taking MAO inhibitors should avoid these drops unless approved by a doctor.
What are the side effects of Phenylephrine?
Phenylephrine may cause increased blood pressure, fast or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, dizziness, headache, and trouble sleeping. Serious side effects are rare but more likely in people with heart problems or high blood pressure. Always take it as directed by your doctor.
What class of drug does phenylephrine belong to?
Phenylephrine belongs to the decongestant class of drugs. It works by shrinking swollen blood vessels in the nose to relieve nasal congestion.
What are the uses for Chlorpheniramine Maleate syrup?
It is used to relieve allergy symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and itching.
What are the side effects of Chlorpheniramine?
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and headache. Rare side effects may include blurred vision, difficulty urinating, fast heartbeat, or allergic reactions.
Reference
- PubChem. Phenylephrine [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from
- MedlinePlus. Phenylephrine: MedlinePlus Drug Information [Internet]. Medlineplus.gov. 2019. Available from
- PubChem. Chlorpheniramine [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from
- Chlorpheniramine and phenylephrine Uses, Side Effects & Warnings [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from
- Actifed Cold and Allergy [Internet]. Medscape.com. 2024. Available from
Authors
Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.