PHENIRAMINE

Mechanism of action

• Pheniramine has H1 receptor antagonist effects. They act in the bronchi, capillaries, and some other smooth muscles.
• It has also anticholinergic and moderate sedative effects.

Indication

• Treatment of allergic conditions such as hay fever, urticaria, eczema, dermatitis, skin edema, itching due to insect bites, photo-dermatitis, rhinitis, serum sickness 

Dose requirement 

• Adult: 15-30 mg bd or tid (po), (up to 45 mg tid)

Contraindication

• Symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy, neonates, premature infants

Possible side effects

• Sedation
• Lassitude
• Dizziness
• Inability to concentrate
• In coordination
• Hallucination
• Dryness of mouth, constipation
• Urinary retention
• Blurred vision
• Palpitation
• Tachycardia

Nursing consideration

• It may cause drowsiness. Caution patient to avoid driving or other activities requiring alertness until response to medication is known.
• AVIL is the popular trade name for Pheniramine.
• Monitor for CNS depression and sedation, especially when combined. with other CNS depressants.
• Monitor blood pressure in hypertensive patients since Pheniramine may elevate blood pressure.
• Do not breastfeed while taking this drug.