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Dexchlorpheniramine Side Effects

Applies to dexchlorpheniramine: oral syrup.

Warning

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you have health problems or use other medications, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Do not use cold or allergy medicine to make a child sleepy.

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

Stop using dexchlorpheniramine and call your doctor at once if you have:

Side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and confusion may be more likely in older adults.

Common side effects may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to dexchlorpheniramine: compounding powder, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet extended release.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included dryness of mouth and throat, epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.[Ref]

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects have included urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary frequency, and early menses.[Ref]

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity reactions have included drug rash, anaphylactic shock, and photosensitivity.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included urticaria.[Ref]

General

General side effects have included excessive perspiration, chills, and dryness of nose.[Ref]

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects have included hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and agranulocytosis.[Ref]

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects have included sedation, sleepiness, dizziness, disturbed coordination, fatigue, confusion, restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, irritability, insomnia, euphoria, paresthesias, hysteria, neuritis, and convulsions.[Ref]

Ocular

Ocular side effects have included blurred vision and diplopia.[Ref]

Other

Otic side effects have included vertigo, tinnitus, and acute labyrinthitis.[Ref]

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects have included thickening of bronchial secretions, tightness of chest, wheezing, and nasal stiffness.[Ref]

Frequently asked questions

References

1. Product Information. Polaramine (dexchlorpheniramine). Schering-Plough Corporation. 2006.

2. Theunissen EL, Vermeeren A, Ramaekers JG. Repeated-dose effects of mequitazine, cetirizine and dexchlorpheniramine on driving and psychomotor performance. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2006;61:79-86.

Further information

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

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.