Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) 4mg Tablet 100's

Product Description:

Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) 4mg tablets are antihistamine medications used primarily to treat allergic reactions. Chlorphenamine works by blocking the H1 histamine receptors, which helps reduce the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that is released during allergic reactions. By blocking histamine, Chlorphenamine helps alleviate symptoms like runny nose, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and itching or swelling.

Mervilar 4mg tablets are commonly used for conditions such as seasonal allergies, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, and other allergic conditions. Chlorphenamine is also effective in treating urticaria (hives) and can be used as part of treatment for more severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, although it should be used in conjunction with other medications for this purpose.

Indications:

Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) 4mg tablets are indicated for the treatment of the following conditions:

1. Allergic Rhinitis:

   • Used to relieve symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes caused by allergies (e.g., hay fever).

2. Urticaria (Hives):

   • For relief from the itching and swelling caused by hives and other allergic skin reactions.

3. Allergic Conjunctivitis:

   • Used to relieve eye irritation, itching, and redness caused by allergies.

4. Pruritus (Itching):

   • For relief of itching associated with allergic skin conditions.

5. Cough and Cold:

   • Sometimes used to help manage symptoms of colds, including runny nose and sneezing, especially if they are due to an allergic reaction.

Dosage:

The typical dosage for Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) 4mg tablets varies depending on the age and condition being treated:

For Adults and Children Over 12 Years:

• Initial Dose: 4mg (1 tablet) every 4 to 6 hours as needed.

• Maximum Dose: 24mg per day (6 tablets in a 24-hour period).

For Children (6 to 12 Years):

• Initial Dose: 2mg (half a tablet) every 4 to 6 hours.

• Maximum Dose: 12mg per day (3 tablets in a 24-hour period).

For Children Under 6 Years:

• The use of Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) is generally not recommended in children under 6 years due to the risk of excessive sedation and other side effects.

Side Effects:

Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) 4mg tablets are generally well tolerated, but like all medications, they can cause side effects. The most common side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness or sedation (a common effect, especially at higher doses).

• Dry mouth, throat, or nose.

• Dizziness or lightheadedness.

• Blurred vision.

• Nausea or stomach discomfort.

• Constipation.

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe allergic reactions: Though rare, symptoms include swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, difficulty breathing, or severe rash (signs of anaphylaxis).

• Urinary retention: Difficulty urinating, particularly in older adults.

• Confusion or hallucinations (more common in elderly patients).

• Rapid heart rate or palpitations.

• Hypotension (low blood pressure), especially when standing up (orthostatic hypotension).

• Severe sedation or lethargy (rare but can occur with high doses).

Very Rare Side Effects:

• Hematological effects: Rare cases of blood disorders like agranulocytosis (low white blood cell count) or thrombocytopenia (low platelet count).

• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes due to liver dysfunction (rare).

Contraindications:

Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) 4mg tablets should be avoided or used with caution in the following conditions:

1. Hypersensitivity:

   • Contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity (allergy) to Chlorphenamine or any of the tablet's components.

2. Severe Liver Dysfunction:

   • Should not be used in patients with severe liver impairment, as the drug is metabolized in the liver and may accumulate to toxic levels.

3. Severe Respiratory Conditions:

   • Contraindicated in patients with severe asthma, bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as antihistamines may increase the risk of thickening mucus and worsen these conditions.

4. Glaucoma:

   • Chlorphenamine can increase intraocular pressure, so it should be avoided in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma or open-angle glaucoma.

5. Urinary Retention:

   • Contraindicated in patients with urinary retention, prostatic hypertrophy, or other bladder-related issues, as it can worsen these conditions.

6. Pregnancy:

   • It is generally recommended to avoid using Chlorphenamine during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

7. Breastfeeding:

   • Chlorphenamine passes into breast milk, and caution should be used when administering it to breastfeeding mothers, as it may cause sedative effects on the infant.

Precautions:

• Sedation: Chlorphenamine can cause significant sedation, and patients should be warned about the potential for drowsiness, especially when driving or operating heavy machinery.

• Elderly Patients: Older adults are more likely to experience sedation, confusion, and other anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth and urinary retention. Lower doses may be required.

• Alcohol: Chlorphenamine may increase the sedative effects of alcohol, so it is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with a history of seizures, epilepsy, liver disease, heart disease, or glaucoma.

Conclusion:

Chlorphenamine (Mervilar) 4mg tablets are an effective treatment for various allergic conditions, such as hay fever, urticaria, and allergic conjunctivitis. While the medication is generally well tolerated, it can cause side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, especially at higher doses. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and take necessary precautions, especially in elderly patients or those with certain medical conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting or stopping this medication to ensure safety and proper use.