People who experience frequent allergy symptoms, such as nasal congestion or irritation, may find relief through the use of a medication called chlorpheniramine maleate. This antihistamine is available over-the-counter and works by limiting the action of an allergy-inducing substance in the body called histamine. Before taking this medication, people should be aware of potential side effects.
Drowsiness
Over 10 percent of people who take chlorpheniramine maleate can experience drowsiness, warn medical experts with RxList. Increased tiredness or fatigue can significantly affect a person's ability to remain alert during normal daily activities. People who take this antihistamine should avoid participating in potentially hazardous activities, such as driving, until they know how chlorpheniramine maleate affects them.
Excitability, Anxiety or Difficulty Sleeping
Certain people who take chlorpheniramine maleate, including children, can become unusually excitable or anxious, explain medical professionals with Drugs.com. These side effects can make it difficult for affected patients to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.
Dry Mouth, Nose or Throat
While taking chlorpheniramine maleate, people can develop abnormal sensations of dryness within their mouth, nose or throat, according to health experts with MedlinePlus. These side effects are typically characterized by increased thirst, sore throat or nasal irritation and sneezing. People taking chlorpheniramine maleate can help limit dry mouth and nose or throat side effects by increasing their fluid intake.
Upset Stomach
After taking a dose of this antihistamine medication, patients can begin to feel sick to their stomachs. Stomach upset side effects typically include nausea, vomiting, constipation and loss of appetite, explains MedlinePlus. These side effects are temporary and generally subside shortly after treatment. Eating a snack or meal before taking this allergy medication can help prevent stomach upset side effects in certain people.
Excess Chest Congestion
Use of this medication can increase the amount of congestion within a person's chest, explain health professionals with Kaiser Permanente. Increased chest congestion can cause cough or breathing difficulties in certain people.
Dizziness and Vision Changes
Sensations of dizziness or lightheadedness are side effects of chlorpheniramine maleate use. People who experience episodes of dizziness should remain seated until such sensations pass in order to prevent injury from tripping or falling down. Vision changes, such as blurred or cloudy vision, or hallucinations can indicate a severe reaction to this medication and should be reported to a medical professional immediately, advise health professionals with Drugs.com.
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