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Peds Calc

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Chlorpheniramine Indications & Clinical Uses

Evidence-based guide for pediatric prescribing

Chlorpheniramine relieves allergic symptoms and cold-related sneezing but is generally a second-line option due to sedation.

Primary FDA-Approved Indications

Use primarily for nighttime allergy or cold symptoms in older children when non-sedating agents fail.

Seasonal/perennial allergic rhinitis with refractory nighttime symptoms

FDA Approved
Children ≥6 years (clinician-directed use ages 2–5)Level C

Transition to second-generation antihistamines once symptoms stabilize to minimize daytime cognitive effects.

Treatment Duration

Standard: Short bursts or bedtime dosing during flares

Evidence Sources

Children's Hospital Colorado Dose Table ()

Cold symptoms with troublesome nocturnal cough/sneezing

FDA Approved
Children ≥6 yearsLevel C

Adjunct to saline, humidifier, and rest. Not recommended for routine daytime use in school-age children due to sedation.

Treatment Duration

Standard: ≤5 nights

Evidence Sources

FDA Caution on Cold Products ()

Clinical Decision Support

Quick Selection Guide

Symptom Cluster 1

Symptoms:

  • Runny nose
  • Sneezing
  • Itching not controlled by loratadine/cetirizine

Likely Diagnosis:

Allergic rhinitis

Action:

Consider bedtime chlorpheniramine for short-term relief; counsel on sedation

Symptom Cluster 2

Symptoms:

  • Viral URI
  • Nocturnal cough disrupting sleep

Likely Diagnosis:

Common cold

Action:

If age ≥6, may trial bedtime dose in addition to non-pharmacologic care

Red Flags & Warnings

Ages <2 years

Do not use; recommend supportive care only

Recurrent night cough >2 weeks

Evaluate for asthma or other pathology before continued use

Alternative Medication Options

Cetirizine / Loratadine

Second-generation antihistamine

First-line for daytime allergy symptoms

Advantages
  • Minimal sedation
  • Once-daily
Disadvantages
  • Less effect on congestion

Saline spray, humidifier, honey (≥1 year)

Supportive care

All viral URI presentations

Advantages
  • Safe
  • Evidence-based for cough relief
Disadvantages
  • Requires caregiver engagement

Parent Communication Guide

When This Medicine Helps

Understanding the Condition

Helps with sneezing, runny nose, and nighttime cough due to allergies or colds.

Why We Choose This Medicine

Chlorpheniramine blocks histamine but can cause sleepiness; use mainly when other medicines haven’t worked.

What to Expect

Relief within 30–60 minutes. Reassess daily and stop once symptoms improve.

Monitoring Your Child

Signs the Medicine is Working:

  • Less sneezing or dripping
  • Improved sleep

When to Contact Your Doctor:

No improvement after: Symptoms unchanged after several bedtime doses

Watch for these warning signs:

  • Hallucinations
  • Chest pounding
  • Severe restlessness
Last updated: 9/24/2025
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