Why is this medication prescribed?

Brompheniramine is an antihistamine medication commonly prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with allergies, hay fever, and the common cold. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

How should this medicine be used?

Brompheniramine is an antihistamine commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. It’s essential to use it exactly as directed by your doctor or as instructed on the medication label. Here are some general guidelines:

• Dosage: Take the medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed.
• Administration: Brompheniramine is usually taken orally, with or without food. Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully.
• Liquid Form: If you’re using the liquid form of brompheniramine, use a measuring spoon or cup to ensure the correct dosage. Do not use a regular tablespoon to measure the dose.
• Extended-Release Tablets: If you’re using extended-release tablets, swallow them whole. Do not crush, chew, or break them.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking brompheniramine, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Brompheniramine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have asthma, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, or problems with urination.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbal supplements. Brompheniramine may interact with other drugs.
• Storage: Store brompheniramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Duration of Use: Use brompheniramine for the duration prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor.

Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your individual needs and medical condition.

Other uses for this medicine

• Relief of Motion Sickness: Brompheniramine can sometimes be used to alleviate symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and vomiting.
• Treatment of Itching and Skin Irritations: It may be used to relieve itching and skin irritations caused by conditions such as insect bites, hives, or eczema.
• Adjunctive Therapy for Anaphylaxis: In some cases, Brompheniramine may be used as part of the treatment for anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using brompheniramine, it’s important to take some special precautions to ensure safe and effective use. Here are some key precautions to keep in mind:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to brompheniramine or any other medications. Also, disclose any history of allergic reactions to antihistamines or other substances.
• Medical History: Provide your doctor with a comprehensive medical history, especially if you have any of the following conditions:
  • Asthma or other respiratory conditions
  • Glaucoma
  • Enlarged prostate or difficulty urinating
  • Thyroid disorders
  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Stomach or intestinal problems, such as ulcers or obstruction
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using brompheniramine. It’s important to weigh the potential risks and benefits of using this medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when giving brompheniramine to children or elderly individuals. Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on age and individual health status. Follow your doctor’s recommendations closely.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking brompheniramine, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired judgment.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Brompheniramine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing tasks that require alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as any herbal supplements. Brompheniramine may interact with certain drugs, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), sedatives, tranquilizers, and other antihistamines.
• Overdose: Seek medical attention immediately if you suspect an overdose of brompheniramine. Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, irregular heartbeat, or difficulty breathing.
• Storage: Store brompheniramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

By following these precautions and consulting your healthcare provider for personalized advice, you can use brompheniramine safely and effectively to manage allergy symptoms.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions, there are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with Brompheniramine. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while taking any medication.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Brompheniramine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Brompheniramine, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Drowsiness: One of the most common side effects of brompheniramine is drowsiness. This can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Dry Mouth: Brompheniramine may cause dry mouth, which can be relieved by drinking water or using sugar-free lozenges or gum.
• Blurred Vision: Some individuals may experience blurred vision while taking brompheniramine. Avoid activities that require clear vision until this side effect resolves.
• Constipation: Brompheniramine can sometimes cause constipation. Increasing fluid intake and dietary fiber may help alleviate this side effect.
• Urinary Retention: In some cases, brompheniramine may cause difficulty urinating or urinary retention, especially in individuals with prostate problems.
• Nausea and Upset Stomach: Some people may experience nausea or an upset stomach while taking brompheniramine. Taking the medication with food may help reduce these symptoms.
• Dizziness: Brompheniramine can cause dizziness, particularly when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position.
• Headache: Headaches are a possible side effect of brompheniramine. If you experience severe or persistent headaches, consult your doctor.
• Nervousness or Excitability: In rare cases, brompheniramine may cause nervousness or excitability, especially in sensitive individuals or at higher doses.
• Increased Heart Rate: Brompheniramine may occasionally cause an increase in heart rate (tachycardia) or palpitations.
• Difficulty Sleeping: Some individuals may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep while taking brompheniramine.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions to brompheniramine can occur. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s essential to report any unusual or bothersome side effects to your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment regimen if necessary. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of brompheniramine, here’s what you should know:

Storage:

• Store brompheniramine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the medication in its original packaging or container, tightly closed when not in use.
• Keep brompheniramine out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not store brompheniramine in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it could be exposed to moisture.

Disposal:

• Dispose of expired or unused brompheniramine properly according to local regulations or guidelines.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so.
• If you have any questions about how to dispose of brompheniramine, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of an overdose of brompheniramine, seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States).
• Symptoms of overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness.
• Be prepared to provide information about the amount of brompheniramine ingested, as well as any other medications or substances taken.

What other information should I know?

• Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, as brompheniramine may interact with certain drugs.
• Avoid consuming alcohol while taking brompheniramine, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.
• Do not take brompheniramine for longer than recommended or in larger doses than prescribed.
• If you have any questions or concerns about brompheniramine or its use, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
• Keep track of your symptoms and report any unusual or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider.
• Follow your doctor’s instructions closely for the best results and to minimize the risk of adverse effects.

By following these guidelines and being prepared for emergencies, you can use brompheniramine safely and effectively to manage allergy symptoms.