Within the niche of hives treatment, the use of antihistamines is quite common since these drugs provide quick relief from sudden flare-ups of hives. One common drug in this category is Chlorpheniramine.
Chlorpheniramine Availability
Chlorpheniramine is available as a part of many over-the-counter anti-allergy medications, mentioned on the label as Chlorpheniramine Maleate. Chlorpheniramine is the active ingredient of non-prescription medications like Chlor-Trimeton (brand name) that are used for treating a wide range of allergic reactions, including hives. In higher concentrations, Chlorpheniramine is available in a prescription format. For instance, Tussionex is the brand name of an anti-allergy medication prescribed for serious flare-ups of hives or other allergies like hay fever. It contains a much higher concentration of Chlorpheniramine maleate, and is recommended for adult usage.
Chlorpheniramine Action in Hives Treatment
Chlorpheniramine is used for the temporary cessation of a severe allergic reaction. Among hives patients, the skin eruptions are common wherein the skin develops highly-inflamed patches. Being an antihistamine, Chlorpheniramine alleviates these symptoms by blocking the uptake of histamines in the body. Histamines are the chemicals produced in the body upon encountering an allergen. Among some people, the production of histamines is stimulated by the most minimal exposure to allergens. Higher concentrations of histamine induces typical allergic reactions like watery eyes and reddish, welt-like patches on the skin. Chlorpheniramine is an H1-receptor antagonist. This means that it blocks a certain kind of histamine receptor (the H1 receptor) that is needed for the uptake of histamine among the cells, thereby preventing allergy symptoms.
Chlorpheniramine Dosage
Chlorpheniramine dosage is largely determined by the age of the patient and the severity of symptoms. Among children, the dosage is highly reduced since this drug can cause drowsiness. For children between the age of two and six years, the daily dosage limit is around 6 mg. For children in the age group of six to twelve years, the daily limit is around 12 mg. Among adults, the dosage can vary between 4 to 6 mg every six hours, with the total daily dosage limitation around 24 mg.
