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Side Effects of Piriton

Piriton, a medication composed of the active ingredient Chlorphenamine maleate, is a drug that is used to treat the symptoms of allergies including persistent runny nose and nasal congestion. Use of this product may result in the experiencing of a number of mild to severe side effects.

  1. Identification

    • Piriton is used specifically to treat individuals with hay fever, insect bites and food allergies. Piriton may also be used to ease swelling of the face or lips caused by severe allergic reaction. Piriton is a combined antihistamine and decongestant. As such, it blocks the body's natural histamine response to stop runny nose and eye itch and reduces constriction of the nasal passages that causes nasal congestion. Since Piriton is a sedating antihistamine, it will cause drowsiness.

    Common Side Effects

    • Common side effects that may arise as a result of using Piriton include mild dizziness and drowsiness, dry mouth, upset stomach, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, restlessness, mild stomach pain, mild insomnia and headache. Though usually minor and less serious than other side effects, report the experience of persistent or worsening side effects to your doctor.

    Serious Side Effects

    • According to Drugs.com, users of Piriton can experience the following severe side effects in rare cases: irregular heartbeat, severe insomnia, severe headache and stomach pain, seizures, hallucinations, vision changes, severe dizziness, ringing in the ears and difficulty breathing. In addition, users may experience a severe allergic reaction to Piriton signaled by skin irritation and swelling of the throat or face. Always seek immediate medical attention if any of these side effects arise.

    Possible Drug Interactions

    • Piriton has been known to react in a negative way with the following common medications: Ambien, Ativan, Benadryl, Flexeril, Midrin, Risperdal, Topamax, Valium, Xanax, Zoloft and Zyrtec. Be sure to consult a complete list of drug interactions before using Piriton. Using medications that may react with Piriton can lead to severe and potentially fatal side effects. Always discuss your medication history with your doctor.

    Warning

    • Be sure to use Piriton as directed by your doctor. Never alter the dose or duration of use. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Piriton and avoid driving as Piriton will cause drowsiness. Use with caution in children and the elderly.

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