Drug interactions
Chlorpheniramine + Scullcap
Severity: Minor
Chlorpheniramine and Scullcap: 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
Scullcap is an herbal product traditionally used for calming effects and may add to the drowsiness caused by the sedating antihistamine chlorpheniramine. Impaired alertness and psychomotor performance may result.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlorpheniramine and Scullcap have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Additive CNS depressant effects; evidence for scullcap sedation is limited and the mechanism is not firmly established.
What to do
Counsel patients to avoid driving or operating machinery until the combined effect is known. Reduce or stop the herbal product if excessive drowsiness occurs.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlorpheniramine with Scullcap?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Chlorpheniramine and Scullcap have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Scullcap is an herbal product traditionally used for calming effects and may add to the drowsiness caused by the sedating antihistamine chlorpheniramine. Impaired alertness and psychomotor performance may result.
How serious is the interaction between Chlorpheniramine and Scullcap?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Counsel patients to avoid driving or operating machinery until the combined effect is known. Reduce or stop the herbal product if excessive drowsiness occurs.
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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