Dexchlorpheniramine Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 7, 2024.

Applies to the following strengths: 2 mg/5 mL; 4 mg; 6 mg; 2 mg

Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Reaction

Initial dose: 2 mg (1 teaspoonful) orally every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 to 6 mg of the timed-release preparation at bedtime or every 8 to 10 hours

Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Rhinitis

Initial dose: 2 mg (1 teaspoonful) orally every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 to 6 mg of the timed-release preparation at bedtime or every 8 to 10 hours

Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Reaction

2 years to 5 years: 0.5 mg (1/4 teaspoonful) every 4 to 6 hours for children 2 to 5 years old (do not use timed release)
6 years to 11 years: 1 mg (1/2 teaspoonful) every 4 to 6 hours, or 4 mg of the timed-release preparation at bedtime

Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Dose Adjustments

Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and the response of the patient.

Precautions

Dexchlorpheniramine is contraindicated in newborns or premature infants and in nursing mothers.

As in adults, antihistamines may diminish mental alertness in children, in the young children particularly, they may produce excitation.

Because antihistamines may have potent anticholinergic properties, dexchlorpheniramine meets Beers criteria as a medications that is potentially inappropriate for use in older adults.