histrex-sr tablet - Chlorpheniramine Maleate (8mg) medicine

Histrex-SR Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Orion Lifesciences 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 21, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for allergic conditions.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 21, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Severe headache with visual changes
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Decreased urine output
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is histrex-sr tablet used for?

This medicine is an antihistamine used to treat allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions. It may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving after taking it.

  • Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate (8mg)
  • Manufacturer: Orion Lifesciences
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 histrex-sr tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे छींक, नाक बहना, आंखों में खुजली और पानी आना, और त्वचा पर खुजली को कम करने के लिए उपयोग की जाती है। यह एलर्जिक राइनाइटिस, अर्टिकेरिया और कीट के काटने से होने वाली एलर्जी में प्रभावी है। यह दवा हिस्टामिन नामक पदार्थ को रोककर काम करती है जो शरीर में एलर्जी पैदा करता है। इस दवा से नींद आ सकती है, इसलिए वाहन चलाने या मशीन चलाने से बचें।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, धुंधली दृष्टि, और जी मिचलाना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के और अस्थायी होते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन इनमें तेज दिल की धड़कन, दौरे, या गंभीर एलर्जी प्रतिक्रिया शामिल हो सकती है। यदि आपको कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। निर्धारित मात्रा से अधिक न लें। इस दवा के साथ शराब न लें क्योंकि इससे नींद और चक्कर बढ़ सकते हैं। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, वाहन न चलाएं। यदि आपको ग्लूकोमा, प्रोस्टेट बढ़ना, पेशाब रुकना, लीवर या किडनी की बीमारी है तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 histrex-sr tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Relieves sneezing, runny nose, itchy and watery eyes, and nasal congestion associated with seasonal or perennial allergies.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Urticaria","description":"Reduces itching and hives caused by allergic reactions.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief from runny nose and sneezing, though it does not treat the underlying viral infection.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Insect bite reactions","description":"Helps reduce local itching and inflammation" class="semantic-link" title="Medicines for swelling">swelling from insect bites.","evidence":"Established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Insomnia","description":"Sometimes used off-label for its sedative effects to promote sleep, but this is not a recommended use due to potential side effects.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Motion sickness","description":"May be used off-label to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness, though other agents are preferred.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Urticaria, Common cold, Insect bite reactions

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Chlorpheniramine Maleate (8mg)
Brand Namehistrex-sr tablet
ManufacturerOrion Lifesciences
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action ClassH1 Antihistaminics (First Generation)
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine with food to reduce stomach upset.
2
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it increases drowsiness.
3
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
4
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose.
5
Consult your doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.
6
Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, prostate enlargement, or urinary retention before taking this medicine.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Sneezing
This medicine is commonly prescribed for allergic sneezing.
Likely Use
✅
Runny nose
Helps reduce runny nose due to allergies.
Likely Use
✅
Itchy eyes
Relieves itchy, watery eyes from allergies.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Cough
Not typically used for cough unless due to allergies.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChlorpheniramine Maleate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The onset of action is typically within 30 to 60 minutes.
DistributionIt is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. It crosses the blood-brain barrier and the placenta.
Protein BindingApproximately 70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismIt is metabolized in the liver, primarily by cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP2D6.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life is approximately 12 to 43 hours, with an average of about 20 hours.
ExcretionIt is excreted primarily in the urine as unchanged drug and metabolites.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability is approximately 25% to 50% due to first-pass metabolism.
Onset of Action30 to 60 minutes
Peak Plasma Time2 to 6 hours
Duration of Action4 to 6 hours for immediate-release formulations, but the 8 mg strength may provide longer relief.

How It Works

This medicine works by competitively blocking histamine H1 receptors on effector cells in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, and respiratory tract. By binding to these receptors, it prevents histamine from exerting its effects, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, itching, and sneezing. It also has anticholinergic properties that contribute to dry mouth and other side effects.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine release: Allergens trigger mast cells to release histamine, which then binds to H1 receptors.
2
Competitive antagonism: This medicine competes with histamine for binding sites on H1 receptors.
3
Prevention of allergic response: By blocking H1 receptors, it prevents histamine-induced vasodilation, increased permeability, itching, and sneezing.
4
Central nervous system effects: Because it crosses the blood-brain barrier, it causes sedation and drowsiness.

💡 How to Take histrex-sr tablet

Strength: Tablet, 8 mg

1Take this medicine orally with a glass of water.
2It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
3Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew.
4Take it at the same times each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Do not take more than the prescribed dose.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 8 mg taken orally every 8 to 12 hours as needed for allergic symptoms. The maximum recommended dose is 24 mg per day. However, the dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on the indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to treatment. Do not exceed the prescribed dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing in children.
Elderly DosageElderly patients (above 65 years) are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, confusion, and anticholinergic effects. A lower initial dose may be considered, and the dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with renal impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. Consult a healthcare professional for individualized dosing.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with hepatic impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. Consult a healthcare professional for individualized dosing.
Maximum Daily Dose24 mg per day

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases drowsiness and CNS depression.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of histrex-sr tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Blurred vision (Uncommon (1-5%))
Avoid driving. Consult doctor if persistent.
Nausea (Uncommon (1-5%))
Take with food. Consult doctor if severe.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing.
Irregular heartbeat (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you feel palpitations or irregular pulse.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency medical help if seizures occur.
Blood disorders (e.g., agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia) (Very rare (<0.01%))
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection to your doctor promptly.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Photosensitivity
Use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
Hepatotoxicity
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAO inhibitors Major
Alcohol Major
CNS depressants Major
Anticholinergics Moderate
CYP2D6 inhibitors Moderate
Opioids Moderate
Antihypertensives Minor
Corticosteroids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • MAO inhibitors
  • Alcohol
  • Other CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, sleep aids)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine)
  • Opioid analgesics

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impair your ability to drive or operate machinery. Combining alcohol with this medicine can also increase the risk of central nervous system depression.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine or any component of the formulation","Narrow-angle glaucoma","Urinary retention or prostatic hypertrophy","Severe liver disease","MAO inhibitor therapy within the last 14 days","Newborns and premature infants"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, urinary retention, or asthma.","May cause dry mouth, constipation, and blurred vision due to anticholinergic effects.","Do not use for prolonged periods without medical supervision.","Elderly patients are more susceptible to side effects such as confusion and falls."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine Maleate is excreted in breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the nursing infant. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding, especially in newborns and premature infants. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe drowsiness, seizures, coma, respiratory depression, and anticholinergic effects. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic, including gastric lavage if within 1-2 hours of ingestion, activated charcoal, and monitoring of vital signs. There is no specific antidote. Physostigmine may be used cautiously for severe anticholinergic toxicity.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants while taking this medicine, as they can increase drowsiness. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, prostate enlargement, urinary retention, liver disease, or kidney disease. This medicine may interact with other medications, so always disclose all medicines you are taking. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more susceptible to the sedative and anticholinergic effects of this medicine, such as confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Use with caution and consider a lower dose. Regular monitoring for falls and cognitive changes is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. It should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss alternative treatments for allergies that are safer during pregnancy.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

This medicine may interact with anesthetics and other medications used during surgery. Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgical procedure.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it can cause dry mouth and may interact with medications used during dental procedures. It may also increase the risk of bleeding if combined with certain dental medications.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Avoid known allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander.
🥗
Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons.
😴
Use air purifiers to reduce indoor allergens.
💧
Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from pollen.
🧘
Shower and change clothes after being outdoors to remove allergens.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause drowsiness and dizziness, which may affect your coordination. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how this medicine affects you.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Stay well hydrated to counteract dry mouth.
Include anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and vegetables.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen side effects.
Eat small, frequent meals if you experience nausea.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause drowsiness, which may affect your ability to drive, operate machinery, or perform tasks requiring mental alertness. It is advisable to take it at bedtime if it makes you sleepy. Discuss with your doctor if your work requires alertness.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects or your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor immediately. For short-term use, stop as directed by your doctor.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may lead to tolerance, dependence, and increased risk of side effects such as cognitive impairment, especially in the elderly. It should be used for the shortest duration necessary. Regular monitoring of liver and kidney function may be advised for prolonged use.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Allergen avoidance

Identifying and avoiding allergens can reduce the need for medication.

Evidence: Well-established
Nasal saline irrigation

Helps clear allergens from nasal passages and reduce symptoms.

Evidence: Established
Immunotherapy

Allergy shots can provide long-term relief for certain allergies.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Store it at room temperature and protect it from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust your dosing schedule accordingly, but do not exceed the maximum daily dose. Check local customs regulations regarding carrying prescription medications.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with seasonal allergic rhinitis
She started taking this medicine as prescribed for her sneezing and runny nose. Within an hour, her symptoms improved significantly, but she felt drowsy. She was advised to take it at bedtime to avoid daytime sedation. She found that taking it with food helped reduce stomach upset.
💡 Lesson: Taking this medicine at bedtime can help manage drowsiness during the day. Always follow your doctor's advice on timing.
👤 A 50-year-old man with chronic urticaria
He was prescribed this medicine for itching and hives. He experienced dry mouth and dizziness initially, but these subsided after a few days. He was advised to avoid alcohol and to stay hydrated. His symptoms improved within a week.
💡 Lesson: Side effects like dry mouth and dizziness are common but often temporary. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol can help.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking it.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is it safe to drive after taking this medicine?

A: This medicine can cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Q: Can I take this medicine if I am pregnant?

A: Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It should be used only if clearly needed.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: It is not safe for individuals with certain conditions like glaucoma or urinary retention, and it can cause drowsiness.
  • Myth: It can be taken with alcohol without any problems.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the sedative effects and should be avoided.
  • Myth: It is non-drowsy.
    Fact: This medicine commonly causes drowsiness; it is a first-generation antihistamine.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Chlorpheniramine Maleate 8 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Histrex-SR Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Chlorpheniramine","class":"First-generation antihistamine","sedation":"High","duration":"4-6 hours"},{"medicine":"Cetirizine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","duration":"24 hours"},{"medicine":"Loratadine","class":"Second-generation antihistamine","sedation":"Low","duration":"24 hours"}]

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