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  the medication, 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: If it’s close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Don’t double up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
• Follow instructions: If you’re unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance on how to proceed.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Brompheniramine, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Brompheniramine may include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Headache
• Difficulty urinating

These side effects are usually mild and may diminish as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult your doctor.

In some cases, Brompheniramine may cause more severe side effects or allergic reactions. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Rash, itching, or hives
• Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Tremors or shaking
• Confusion or hallucinations
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Seizures
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

These severe side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention if they occur.

It’s important to note that this list does not include all possible side effects of Brompheniramine. If you experience any other unusual symptoms while taking this medication, contact your doctor or healthcare provider for advice. Additionally, if you have any concerns about potential side effects, discuss them with your doctor before starting Brompheniramine.

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: Keep brompheniramine in its original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired 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. Instead, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for guidance on the proper disposal method.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, loss of consciousness, or seizures, seek immediate medical help by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Contact poison control: If you suspect an overdose but the person is conscious and alert, you can also contact your local poison control center or the National Poison Control Hotline (1-800-222-1222) for guidance on what to do next.

What other information should I know?

• Regular check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider while taking brompheniramine to monitor your response to the medication and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Avoiding certain activities: Be cautious when performing tasks that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, as brompheniramine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision.
• Medication interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, as brompheniramine may interact with certain drugs.
• Medical alerts: Wear a medical alert bracelet or carry a card indicating that you are taking brompheniramine, especially if you have a history of severe allergic reactions or other medical conditions that may require emergency treatment.

By following these guidelines and being aware of important information about storage, disposal, emergencies, and other considerations, you can use brompheniramine safely and effectively under the guidance of your healthcare provider.