chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

chlophedianol: 

• Action: chlophedianol is a cough suppressant (antitussive) that acts on the cough center in the brain to reduce the urge to cough. It works by depressing the cough reflex, helping to relieve dry, non-productive cough. 
• Spectrum: chlophedianol is primarily effective in alleviating cough associated with minor respiratory tract irritations or conditions such as the common cold, bronchitis, or throat irritation. 

dexbrompheniramine: 

• Action: dexbrompheniramine is an antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions. It helps to relieve symptoms of allergies such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes. 
• Spectrum: dexbrompheniramine provides relief from various allergic conditions, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic conjunctivitis, and other allergic reactions that may manifest with respiratory symptoms. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Central nervous system: excitability (commonly seen in children, Drowsiness 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine do not have specific black box warnings 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Hypersensitivity: Individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to chlophedianol, dexbrompheniramine, or any other ingredients present in the medication should avoid its use. 
• Asthma: chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine can cause respiratory depression and may worsen symptoms in individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions. It is typically contraindicated in severe asthma. 
• Acute alcohol intoxication: chlophedianol may increase the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects of alcohol, so its use is contraindicated in individuals with acute alcohol intoxication. 
• Glaucoma: dexbrompheniramine can cause an increase in intraocular pressure and is generally contraindicated in individuals with closed-angle glaucoma. 
• MAO inhibitors: Concurrent use of chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine with monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors or within 14 days of discontinuing MAO inhibitors is contraindicated due to the risk of severe reactions.

Caution: 

• Sedation: Both chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine can cause drowsiness and impair mental alertness. It is important to use caution when performing activities which require mental alertness like driving or operating machinery. Avoid consuming alcohol or other sedating substances while taking these medications. 
• Central Nervous System (CNS) Effects: chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine may have additive CNS depressant effects when used with other medications can cause drowsiness or sedation, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or certain antidepressants.  
• Medical Conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, urinary retention, glaucoma, hypertension, or prostate enlargement, may require special caution or dosage adjustments when using chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine. It is important to discuss your medical history with a healthcare professional before using these medications. 
• Age and Pediatrics: Use caution when administering chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine to young children or older adults, as they may be more sensitive to the sedating effects of these medications. 
• Drug Interactions: chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine may interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

Comorbidities: 

• Respiratory conditions: Individuals with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions may require cautious use of chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine, as these medications can cause respiratory depression or exacerbate respiratory symptoms. 
• Cardiovascular conditions: Caution is advised in individuals with cardiovascular diseases like hypertension, coronary artery disease, or arrhythmias. These medications can have effects on blood pressure, heart rate, and cardiac conduction, which may require close monitoring. 
• Urinary retention: chlophedianol can potentially exacerbate urinary retention in individuals with conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or bladder outlet obstruction. Close monitoring is needed in such cases. 
• Glaucoma: dexbrompheniramine can increase intraocular pressure and may worsen symptoms in individuals with glaucoma. Use caution and consult with an ophthalmologist if you have glaucoma or a history of elevated intraocular pressure. 
• Liver or kidney impairment: Individuals with liver or kidney impairment may require dose adjustments or closer monitoring of chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine, as these medications may be metabolized or eliminated differently in these individuals. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration: pregnancy category: unknown 

Lactation: excreted into breast milk: dexbrompheniramine – yes; chlophedianol – unknown  

Pregnancy category: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

chlophedianol: 

• Mechanism of Action: chlophedianol is a centrally acting antitussive (cough suppressant). It works by depressing the cough reflex in the central nervous system, reducing the urge to cough. 

dexbrompheniramine: 

• Mechanism of Action: dexbrompheniramine is a selective histamine H1 receptor antagonist (antihistamine). It competitively blocks the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and runny nose. 

When used in combination, chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine provide a dual action in relieving cough and allergy symptoms. chlophedianol acts to suppress the cough reflex in the brain, helping to reduce coughing, while dexbrompheniramine blocks histamine receptors, alleviating allergic symptoms such as sneezing and nasal congestion.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

chlophedianol: 

• Antitussive action: chlophedianol acts as a centrally acting antitussive, meaning it suppresses the cough reflex in the central nervous system. It decreases the frequency and intensity of coughing by decreasing the sensitivity of the cough receptors in the lungs and throat. 

dexbrompheniramine: 

• Antihistamine action: dexbrompheniramine is an antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine, a chemical released during allergic reactions. It competes with histamine for binding to H1 receptors, thereby reducing the symptoms of allergic reactions such as itching, sneezing, and runny nose.

Pharmacokinetics: 

chlophedianol: 

• Absorption: chlophedianol is well absorbed through oral administration, reaching a peak plasma concentration within 1 to 2 hours. 
• Distribution: chlophedianol is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system (CNS), where it exerts its antitussive effects. 
• Metabolism: chlophedianol undergoes hepatic metabolism primarily via the CYP2D6 enzyme, resulting in the formation of several metabolites. 
• Excretion: The metabolites of chlophedianol are primarily eliminated through urine. 

dexbrompheniramine: 

• Absorption: dexbrompheniramine is well absorbed following oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 1 to 3 hours. 
• Distribution: dexbrompheniramine is widely distributed in the body, including the CNS, where it exerts its antihistamine effects. 
• Metabolism: dexbrompheniramine undergoes hepatic metabolism, primarily via the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, resulting in the formation of metabolites. 
• Excretion: The metabolites of dexbrompheniramine are mainly eliminated through urine. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

• Follow instructions: Read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer or healthcare professional carefully. They will provide specific dosing information, including the recommended dosage, frequency, and duration of treatment. 
• Oral administration: chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine are usually taken orally with water. Take the medication as a whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking the tablets or capsules, unless instructed otherwise. 
• Timing of administration: It is important to take the medication at the recommended intervals or as directed by your healthcare professional. This ensures that you maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system for optimal therapeutic effects. 
• Food considerations: Some formulations of chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine may be taken with or without food. However, certain foods or beverages, such as grapefruit juice, may interact with the medication. Check with your healthcare professional or refer to the medication label for any specific food restrictions or recommendations. 
• Dosing instructions: Always use the provided measuring device, such as a syringe or dosing cup, when taking liquid formulations to ensure accurate dosing. Do not use household spoons, as they may not provide precise measurements. 
• Duration of treatment: Follow the prescribed duration of treatment as advised by your healthcare professional. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use the medication for a longer period without medical supervision. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine 

Pronounced: (kloh-feed-ee-uh-nol-and- dex-brom-fen-IR-uh-meen)  

Why do we use chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine? 

• Cough suppression: chlophedianol is an antitussive, which means it helps to suppress coughing. It acts on the cough reflex center in the brain, reducing the frequency and intensity of coughing. 
• Allergy relief: dexbrompheniramine is an antihistamine that blocks the effects of histamine, a substance released during allergic reactions. It helps alleviate symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itching, and watery eyes associated with allergic conditions like hay fever and allergic rhinitis. 

The combination of chlophedianol and dexbrompheniramine in cough and cold medications helps provide relief from coughing and allergic symptoms, offering temporary relief and improving overall comfort during colds, flu, and allergy episodes.