Karbinal ER

Generic name: carbinoxamine [ car-bi-NOX-a-meen ]
Other brand names of carbinoxamine include Karbinal ER, Ryvent
Drug class: Antihistamines

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 12, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Karbinal ER?

Karbinal ER is an antihistamine that is used to treat runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other symptoms of allergies.

Karbinal ER is for use in adults and children at least 2 years old.

Karbinal ER may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Karbinal ER side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Karbinal ER may cause serious side effects. Stop using Karbinal ER and call your doctor at once if you have:

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• little or no urination;

• wheezing, tightness in your chest;

• pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest; or

• pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding.

Side effects such as dizziness and confusion may be more likely in older adults.

Common side effects of Karbinal ER may include:

• dry mouth, nose, or throat;

• drowsiness, dizziness;

• loss of coordination; or

• upset stomach.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use Karbinal ER if you are allergic to it.

Do not use Karbinal ER if you also use an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 2 years old.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• glaucoma;

• a stomach ulcer;

• a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines);

• a thyroid disorder;

• heart problems, high blood pressure;

• liver or kidney disease;

• asthma or sulfite allergy;

• an enlarged prostate;

• urination problems; or

• low blood pressure.

You should not breastfeed while using Karbinal ER.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant.

How should I take Karbinal ER?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Follow all directions when giving Karbinal ER to a child. Do not use the medicine to make a child sleepy. Misuse of this medicine may cause death in very young children.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid). Measure a dose with the supplied syringe or a dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Karbinal ER is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose can be fatal, especially to a child.

Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness or restless feeling, hallucinations, dilated pupils, or seizure (convulsions).

What should I avoid while taking Karbinal ER?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Karbinal ER will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Avoid drinking alcohol.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

What other drugs will affect Karbinal ER?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicines that can cause drowsiness (such as opioid medication, sleep medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2025 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 9.01.