Why is this medication prescribed?

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

Brompheniramine is typically used to treat hay fever (allergic rhinitis), allergic conjunctivitis, allergic reactions to insect bites or stings, and other allergy-related conditions. It may also be used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, such as sneezing and runny nose.

How should this medicine be used?

Brompheniramine is an antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, and itching. It works by blocking certain natural substances (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.

Brompheniramine is typically taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. The dosage and frequency of use depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.

Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and refer to the medication guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking brompheniramine.

Other uses for this medicine

Some off-label uses of Brompheniramine include:

• Relief of itching and hives (urticaria): Brompheniramine’s antihistamine properties can help alleviate itching associated with various skin conditions, including hives.
• Motion sickness: Brompheniramine may be used to prevent or reduce symptoms of motion sickness, such as nausea and vomiting, due to its sedating effects.
• Insomnia: Brompheniramine’s sedative effects can sometimes be utilized to aid sleep in individuals with insomnia, particularly when the insomnia is related to allergies or cold symptoms.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking brompheniramine or any medication, it’s important to follow certain precautions to ensure safe and effective use:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially to antihistamines or any other medications.
• Medical History: Provide your doctor with your complete medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, heart problems, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcers, blockage), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), difficulty urinating (such as due to enlarged prostate).
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using brompheniramine.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when giving brompheniramine to children and elderly individuals, as they may be more sensitive to its effects and side effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Brompheniramine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving, using machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• Alcohol and Other Medications: Avoid consuming alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness while using brompheniramine, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
• Overdose: Taking more than the recommended dose of brompheniramine can lead to serious side effects. Seek immediate medical attention if you suspect an overdose.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Storage: Store brompheniramine at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications out of the reach of children and pets.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication label and patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist before using brompheniramine. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Brompheniramine, there are typically no specific dietary restrictions associated with its use. However, it’s essential to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated while taking any medication, including Brompheniramine, to support overall health and well-being.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If it’s close to the 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 it’s not close to the time for your next dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take extra medication to make up for the missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Brompheniramine, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects of brompheniramine may include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Constipation
• Dry mouth, nose, or throat
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Upset stomach
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Nervousness or restlessness

These side effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Serious side effects of brompheniramine are rare but may include:

• Fast/irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty urinating or painful urination
• Mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations)
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Trouble breathing

If you experience any serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice any other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Remember to always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication label and patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist for specific guidance on side effects and what to do if you experience them.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Store brompheniramine at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom.
• Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard brompheniramine when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details on how to safely discard your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

• If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call emergency services immediately.
• Symptoms of overdose may include: extreme drowsiness, hallucinations, seizures, irregular heartbeat, fainting, or difficulty breathing.
• Do not share this medication with others. Sharing it is against the law.

What other information should I know?

• Before using brompheniramine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• Avoid consuming alcohol or taking other medications that cause drowsiness while using brompheniramine, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
• Consult your doctor before using brompheniramine if you have any medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, or glaucoma.
• Brompheniramine may cause drowsiness or dizziness. Avoid driving, using machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using brompheniramine.
• If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, seek medical attention.
• Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication label and patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist for specific guidance on how to use brompheniramine.

If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.