Triprolidine (first-generation antihistamine)

Triprolidine is a first-generation antihistamine. It is mainly used to treat symptoms of allergies which commonly include itchiness, runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing.

Know the basics

What is triprolidine used for?

This drug treats symptoms of allergies such as:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Itchiness
• Rash

How should I take triprolidine?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For chewable tablets, chew the tablet completely, swallow, and then drink a glass of water. It is best taken after meals and at bedtime. Do not swallow the tablet whole or dissolve it in liquid.

For oral liquid preparations use a medical-grade measuring cup, not a household spoon.

How do I store triprolidine?

Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Know the precautions & warnings

What should I know before using triprolidine?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
• An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
• Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe to take triprolidine during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Know the side effects

What are the side effects of triprolidine?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

• Excitability
• Sedation or drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Loss of coordination or balance
• Muscular weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Rapid heart rate
• Arrhythmias
• Dry mouth
• Urinary retention
• Impotence
• Vertigo
• Visual disturbances
• Tinnitus
• Wheezing
• Stuffy nose
• Sweating
• Chills
• Headache
• Anemia (rarely)

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Know the interactions

What drugs may interact with triprolidine?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

• Other antihistamines
• CNS depressants
• Alcohol-containing preparations
• Antimuscarinic drugs
• Aminoglycosides

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with triprolidine?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Do not consume alcohol while taking this drug. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with triprolidine?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have, especially:

• Enlarged prostate
• Pyloroduodenal obstruction
• Stenosing peptic ulcer
• Bladder obstruction
• Angle-closure glaucoma

Understand the dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Take 2.5 mg every 4 to 6 hours, up to 10 mg per day.

What is the dose for a child?

For children ages 4 months to less than 2 years old: Give 0.313 mg every 4 to 6 hours, up to 1.252 mg per day.

2 to less than 4 years old: Give 0.625 mg every 4 to 6 hours, up to 2.5 mg per day.

4 to less than 6 years old: Give 0.938 mg every 4 to 6 hours, up to 3.744 mg per day.

6 to less than 12 years old: 1.25 mg every 4 to 6 hours, up to 5 mg per day.

How is triprolidine available?

Triprolidine is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

• Oral liquid: 0.313 mg/mL, 0.625 mg/mL, 0.938 mg/mL, 1.25 mg/mL
• Oral syrup: 2.5 mg/5 mL
• Chewable tablet: 1.25 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.