Dexchlorpheniramine maleate is a medication indicated to alleviate symptoms associated with the common cold, hay fever and seasonal allergies. This allergy treatment is part of a class of drugs called antihistamines and works by blocking the action of histamine, an allergy-inducing substance in the body. Patients taking dexchlorpheniramine maleate can experience certain side effects during treatment, which should be discussed with a doctor if they occur.
Blurred Vision
During treatment with this medication, patients can develop vision-related side effects, warn health officials at Drugs.com, an informational website that provides peer-reviewed drug product data to consumers. Patients may experience blurred, cloudy or double vision, which can contribute to headache or dizziness. Episodes of dizziness can cause a patient to appear unstable or poorly coordinated when attempting to walk or stand normally. If these side effects persist or worsen during dexchlorpheniramine maleate treatment contact a doctor.
Difficulty Sleeping or Fatigue
Treatment with this medication can cause certain patients to become unusually restless, anxious or irritable, explains Daily Med, a website supported by the National Institutes of Health that provides current drug information to consumers. These mood changes can make it difficult for an affected patient to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. Alternatively, certain patients may experience increased tiredness or fatigue following dexchlorpheniramine maleate treatment. These side effects can make it difficult for patients to remain alert and focused while at work or school.
Dry Nose or Mouth
After taking a dose of dexchlorpheniramine maleate, certain patients can develop oral or nasal irritation as a side effect, explain health officials at Medsafe, a drug information website established by the New Zealand Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority. These side effects can cause the throat, mouth and nasal passageways to feel dry, sticky or sore. Certain patients may also experience sneezing or difficulty swallowing because of these side effects.
Stomach Upset
After taking a dose of dexchlorpheniramine maleate, stomach-related side effects can arise in certain patients. These side effects can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation and may result in a loss of appetite in affected patients, explains Drugs.com. Diarrhea or constipation can also contribute to abdominal discomfort, cramping or bloating, which can be uncomfortable.
Breathing Difficulties
Use of dexchlorpheniramine maleate can thicken mucus within a patient's lungs or airway passages. As a result, certain patients can experience wheezing, chest discomfort or difficulty breathing as side effects of treatment, warns Drugs.com. Seek immediate medical care if breathing difficulties develop while taking this medication.
Skin Rash
Certain patients can develop a minor skin rash as a side effect of taking this type of medication, warn health officials at Daily Med. Skin rash symptoms can include redness, dryness or itching of the affected skin region. Swelling of the skin--especially within the face--can be indicative of an allergic reaction to this medication and requires immediate emergency medical attention.
Member Comments