Chlorpheniramine Tablets contain chlorpheniramine maleate, a first generation antihistamine commonly used for dogs and cats.
Chlorpheniramine works by blocking the effects of histamine at H1 receptors. Histamine is released during allergic responses and contributes to signs such as itching and other allergy related reactions.
Chlorpheniramine is an over the counter antihistamine and does not require a prescription for purchase. When using chlorpheniramine for a pet, the appropriate amount and frequency should be based on the animal's species, body weight, individual needs, and veterinary guidance.
Some pets may experience drowsiness while taking chlorpheniramine. Individual responses to antihistamines can vary.
Brand, manufacturer, tablet appearance, packaging, and inactive ingredients may vary depending on product availability.
Chlorpheniramine is a first generation H1 antihistamine.
It works by blocking histamine at H1 receptor sites. Histamine is one of the substances involved in allergic responses and contributes to many common allergy related signs.
By limiting the effects of histamine, chlorpheniramine provides antihistamine activity that may help support pets experiencing certain allergy related signs.
Individual responses to antihistamines vary, and some pets may respond differently than others.
Chlorpheniramine is an over the counter antihistamine commonly used in dogs and cats when antihistamine support is appropriate.
It may be used as part of an individualized approach for pets experiencing certain allergy related signs.
Veterinary uses of human labeled chlorpheniramine products are not specifically listed on the human OTC product label. Pet owners should use an appropriate amount for the individual animal and consult their veterinarian when unsure whether chlorpheniramine is appropriate for their pet.
Active Ingredients:
Chlorpheniramine Maleate – 4 mg per tablet
Inactive Ingredients:
Inactive ingredients vary by manufacturer and may include:
Brand and manufacturer may vary depending on product availability. Refer to the label on the product supplied for complete inactive ingredient information.
Give chlorpheniramine by mouth.
The appropriate amount and frequency depend on the pet's species, body weight, individual needs, and response.
Weight / Dosage
Common veterinary reference amounts include:
| Pet | Common Veterinary Reference Amount |
|---|---|
| Cats | 2–4 mg per cat every 12 hours as needed |
| Dogs under 44 lb | 4 mg per dog every 8 hours as needed |
| Dogs over 44 lb | 8 mg per dog or 0.25–0.5 mg/kg every 8 hours as needed |
Veterinary references may provide different dosage ranges depending on the intended use and individual animal.
When unsure of the appropriate amount for your pet, consult your veterinarian before use.
Do not exceed the amount recommended for your pet.
Chlorpheniramine may generally be given with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, giving the tablet with a small amount of food may help.
Some pets may experience side effects while taking chlorpheniramine.
Possible side effects may include:
Some animals may experience excitement rather than drowsiness.
Stop use and contact your veterinarian if significant or persistent side effects occur.
Seek prompt veterinary attention if an overdose is suspected or if your pet develops severe agitation, tremors, seizures, collapse, difficulty urinating, breathing difficulty, or another concerning reaction.
Monitor your pet when first introducing chlorpheniramine so you can observe its individual response.
Because chlorpheniramine may cause drowsiness, use additional caution when it is combined with other products or medications that may have sedating effects.
Consult your veterinarian before use if your pet has glaucoma, urinary problems, gastrointestinal obstruction, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, respiratory disease, liver disease, kidney disease, or another significant medical condition.
Do not use combination human cold or allergy medications in place of plain chlorpheniramine unless specifically recommended by your veterinarian. Combination products may contain additional active ingredients that are inappropriate for pets.
If allergy related signs persist, worsen, or are accompanied by facial swelling, breathing difficulty, collapse, or another severe reaction, seek veterinary attention promptly.
Store at controlled room temperature. Many chlorpheniramine maleate tablet labels specify storage at 25°C (77°F) with permitted excursions between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Protect from excessive moisture. Keep the container securely closed. Brand and manufacturer may vary, so follow the storage instructions printed on the product packaging supplied. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
Disposal
Whenever possible, dispose of unwanted or expired medication through an authorized medication take back program.
If a take back option is unavailable, follow applicable local medication disposal recommendations.
Keep discarded tablets and packaging inaccessible to children and animals.
Dispose of empty packaging according to applicable local requirements.