• Starts working within 30 minutes to relieve allergy symptoms
  • Effective for hay fever, pet, and dust allergies
  • Sedating effect can help ease symptoms for better sleep

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Overview

Chlorphenamine 4mg Tablets (commonly known by the brand name Piriton) offer fast and reliable relief from allergy symptoms. Whether it’s sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose, or irritating skin reactions, this trusted antihistamine helps calm your body’s response and restores comfort. Unlike non-drowsy antihistamines, chlorphenamine can make you feel sleepy — which means it not only eases symptoms but may also help you get a better night’s rest if allergies keep you awake.


What is Chlorphenamine 


Chlorphenamine is an effective treatment for hay fever, pet and dust allergies, skin reactions, and mild food allergies. It works by blocking histamine, the chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction, reducing symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Unlike non-drowsy antihistamines, chlorphenamine can make you sleepy, which may be useful if symptoms are interfering with rest. It is suitable for both short-term flare-ups and ongoing seasonal allergies.

Directions

  • Adults and children over 12 years: One tablet (4mg), up to 4 times daily.
  • Children aged 6–12 years: Half a tablet (2mg), up to 4 times daily.
  • Not recommended for children under 6 years unless prescribed by a doctor.


Take with water, preferably at mealtimes. Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Side Effects

Like all medicines, chlorphenamine can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them.

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Drowsiness or sleepiness
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Dizziness


Less common (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Upset stomach or constipation


Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):

  • Difficulty urinating
  • Confusion (more likely in older adults)
  • Allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty — seek urgent medical advice)


Most people tolerate chlorphenamine well, and side effects (if they do occur) are usually mild. If you are concerned about any symptoms, or they do not improve, speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or prescriber.

Disclaimer: This is not a complete list of side effects. Always read the patient information leaflet provided with your medicine for full details. If you experience severe or worrying symptoms, seek medical advice straight away. In an emergency, call 999 or go to A&E.

Warnings

  • May cause drowsiness — do not drive or operate machinery if affected
  • Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness
  • Not suitable if you have glaucoma, epilepsy, or urinary retention, unless advised by a doctor
  • Check with your prescriber if you are taking other sedating medicines (e.g., sleeping tablets, strong painkillers, or antidepressants)
Frequently asked questions
  • What is chlorphenamine and how does it work?

    Chlorphenamine is a sedating antihistamine used to relieve symptoms such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes and skin reactions. It works by blocking histamine, which reduces allergic responses. It is commonly used for hay fever, allergies, insect bites and mild allergic reactions when rapid relief is needed.

  • How long does chlorphenamine take to work and how long do effects last?

    Chlorphenamine usually starts working within 30 minutes, with effects lasting around four to six hours. Because it acts quickly, it is helpful for sudden allergic flare-ups or symptoms that develop unexpectedly. Some people take it alongside non-drowsy antihistamines during severe allergy periods.

  • Why does chlorphenamine cause drowsiness?

    Chlorphenamine crosses into the brain more easily than newer antihistamines, which can slow alertness and cause sleepiness. These effects may last several hours, so avoid driving or using machinery if you feel tired or mentally slowed. Some people prefer taking chlorphenamine at night because of its sedative effects.

  • What symptoms can chlorphenamine help with?

    Chlorphenamine helps relieve itching, watery eyes, sneezing, runny nose and mild swelling caused by allergies, hay fever, pets, dust or skin reactions. It also provides relief for insect bites and mild food-related reactions when symptoms appear quickly.

  • Who should avoid taking chlorphenamine tablets?

    Chlorphenamine may not be suitable if you have glaucoma, severe liver problems, breathing difficulties, or an enlarged prostate. It should be avoided with alcohol or medicines that cause strong drowsiness. A clinician can advise if you have medical conditions or take other sedating treatments.

  • Can I take chlorphenamine with other allergy medicines?

    Chlorphenamine can be used safely with steroid nasal sprays or antihistamine eye drops when symptoms are more severe. It should not be taken with other oral antihistamines. Some people use non-drowsy antihistamines during the day and chlorphenamine at night for extra relief.

  • Is chlorphenamine safe in pregnancy or breastfeeding?

    Chlorphenamine may be used in pregnancy under medical supervision, though non-drowsy alternatives are often preferred. During breastfeeding, small amounts may pass into milk and cause drowsiness in infants, so guidance from a clinician is essential before use.

  • Can chlorphenamine help with allergic rashes or hives?

    Yes. Chlorphenamine can help reduce itching, redness and irritation from hives or allergic rashes. It works quickly, making it helpful for sudden flare-ups. For frequent or severe skin reactions, ongoing management with a clinician is recommended to identify triggers or adjust treatment.

  • Is chlorphenamine suitable for adults with asthma or breathing conditions?

    Chlorphenamine may be used cautiously in some adults with asthma, but its sedative effects can worsen breathing symptoms for certain people. A clinician should review your medical history before use, especially if you have frequent wheezing or chest tightness.

  • Can chlorphenamine be used for travel allergies or motion sensitivity?

    Yes. Chlorphenamine may help if allergies flare up during travel or if exposure to pets, dust or outdoor environments is unpredictable. Its sedative properties may also help reduce motion-related discomfort during long journeys. Use caution if driving as it can cause sleepiness.

  • Can I use chlorphenamine for mild food-related allergic reactions?

    Chlorphenamine can help with itching or mild swelling caused by food exposure, but it is not appropriate for severe or rapidly worsening reactions. If symptoms include breathing difficulty or throat swelling, seek emergency care. People with frequent food reactions should speak to a clinician.

  • Can chlorphenamine help if I react to cold weather or temperature changes?

    Some people experience histamine release triggered by cold weather, sudden temperature shifts or outdoor exposure. Chlorphenamine may help reduce itching, redness or swelling in these situations. If symptoms are recurrent, a clinician can review long-term management options.

  • Is chlorphenamine better taken at night or during the day?

    Many people prefer taking chlorphenamine at night because it commonly causes drowsiness. This can be helpful if allergies disturb sleep. During the day, a non-drowsy antihistamine may be more suitable. A clinician can help you decide based on your symptoms and routine.

  • Can chlorphenamine be taken long term for chronic allergies?

    Chlorphenamine can be used long term if medically advised, but many people find non-drowsy antihistamines more suitable for daily use. Because chlorphenamine causes sedation, long-term treatment should be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains appropriate.

  • What should I do if chlorphenamine makes me extremely sleepy?

    If you experience strong drowsiness from chlorphenamine, reduce how often you take it or use it in the evening instead. Avoid alcohol and sedating medicines. Switching to a non-drowsy antihistamine may be a safer option if sleepiness affects your daily routine.