Drug interactions
Chlorpheniramine + Epinephrine
Severity: Minor
Chlorpheniramine and Epinephrine: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Epinephrine is a stimulant and chlorpheniramine is sedating, so their central effects partly oppose each other, though the clinical result is unpredictable. They are often used together in allergic reactions, where antihistamines are adjunctive and epinephrine remains the priority treatment. Epinephrine's cardiovascular effects may be accompanied by anticholinergic tachycardia from the antihistamine.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlorpheniramine and Epinephrine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Chlorpheniramine belongs to Respiratory; Epinephrine belongs to Endocrine.
Why it happens
Opposing central nervous system effects; no established pharmacokinetic interaction.
What to do
Do not delay epinephrine in anaphylaxis because of an antihistamine. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure after use.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Chlorpheniramine
Other interactions of Epinephrine
- Epinephrine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Epinephrine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Epinephrine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Epinephrine Major
- Amitriptyline + Epinephrine Major
- Amoxapine + Epinephrine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlorpheniramine with Epinephrine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Chlorpheniramine and Epinephrine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Epinephrine is a stimulant and chlorpheniramine is sedating, so their central effects partly oppose each other, though the clinical result is unpredictable. They are often used together in allergic reactions, where antihistamines are adjunctive and epinephrine remains the priority treatment. Epinephrine's cardiovascular effects may be accompanied by anticholinergic tachycardia from the antihistamine.
How serious is the interaction between Chlorpheniramine and Epinephrine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Do not delay epinephrine in anaphylaxis because of an antihistamine. Monitor heart rate and blood pressure after use.
What other medicines interact with Chlorpheniramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlorpheniramine with, for example, Belladonna and opium, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen, Brexanolone. The full list is on the Chlorpheniramine page.
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