Chlorphenamine, in common with other drugs having anticholinergic effects, should be used with caution in epilepsy; raised intra-ocular pressure including glaucoma; prostatic hypertrophy; severe hypertension or cardiovascular disease; bronchitis, bronchiectasis and asthma; hepatic impairment; renal impairment. Children and the elderly are more likely to experience the neurological anticholinergic effects and paradoxical excitation (eg. Increased energy, restlessness, nervousness). Avoid use in elderly patients with confusion.
The anticholinergic properties of chlorphenamine may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision and psychomotor impairment in some patients which may seriously affect ability to drive and use machinery.
The effects of alcohol may be increased and therefore concurrent use should be avoided.
Should not be used with other antihistamine containing products, including antihistamine containing cough and cold medicines.
Concurrent use with drugs which cause sedation such as anxiolytics and hypnotics may cause an increase in sedative effects, therefore medical advice should be sought before taking chlorphenamine concurrently with these medicines.
Piriton syrup contains 6.3% v/v ethanol (alcohol), i.e., up to 497 mg per 10 ml (4 mg), equivalent to 12.6 ml beer, 5.3 ml wine per dose. This should be taken into consideration as it is harmful for those suffering from alcoholism. To be taken into account in pregnant and breast feeding women, children and high risk groups such as patients with liver disease or epilepsy.
Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption or sucrose-isomaltase insufficiency should not take this medicine.
Piriton Syrup contains 2.36 g of sucrose per 5 ml. This should be taken into account in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Long term use increases the risk of dental caries and it is essential that adequate dental hygiene is maintained.
Methyl, ethyl and propyl hydroxybenzoates (E218, E214 and E216) may cause allergic reactions (possibly delayed).
Keep out of the reach and sight of children.