Piriton Allergy Relief Tablets - 30 Tablets

Product Summary

Piriton Tablets contain Chlorphenamine maleate 4mg, an antihistamine that relieves the symptoms of allergies and itchy skin rashes.

Directions

• Adults and children over 12 years: Take ONE tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Maximum 6 tablets in 24 hours.
• Children 6 -12 years: Take half a tablet every 4 to 6 hours. Maximum 6 half-tablets in 24 hours.

Ingredients

• Active ingredient: Each tablet contains Chlorphenamine Maleate 4 mg.
• Other ingredients: Lactose, maize starch, pre-gelatinised maize starch, yellow iron oxide (E 172), magnesium stearate.

Warnings and Restrictions

Please read the information leaflet carefully before use.

• Not recommended for children under 6 years.
• Do not take Piriton Tablets if you are taking MAOI drugs.
• Do not take these tablets if you are allergic to antihistamines or to any of the ingredients listed above.
• Do not take these tablets if you have taken drugs for depression called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) within the last 14 days.
• Please see your doctor before you take these tablets if you have epilepsy, glaucoma, an enlarged prostate, an overactive thyroid, very high blood pressure, or heart, liver or lung disease.
• Please see your doctor before you take these tablets if you are taking drugs to treat anxiety or to help you sleep.
• Please see your doctor before you take these tablets if you are taking any medicine containing phenytoin for epilepsy.
• Should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding without seeking advice from a doctor.
• These tablets may cause drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision and loss of coordination. If you experience any of these effects, do not drive or operate machinery.
• This medicine contains lactose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking it.

Storage

Do not store above 30°C.

Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children

Pharmacist FAQs Answered

Why would one use Piriton rather than a non-sedating antihistamine?

Piriton is useful if the symptoms are worse, particularly if they interfere with sleep. For instance, if itching at night due to hives or eczema is a problem, its sedative effect can be a blessing in disguise. It's also frequently used in the case of allergic skin reactions or insect bites because it quiets the immune system rapidly. But aside from the possible risk of inducing drowsiness, it's generally not the first choice of daytime allergy control unless otherwise instructed.

Is it acceptable to take Piriton occasionally at night for sleeping?

A few people do use Piriton on occasion for nocturnal allergy-induced sleep disturbance (e.g., night time itching), but regularly for sleeping it is not acceptable without speaking with a doctor. Everyone's sedative effect is different, and long-term use can lead to tolerance or unwanted side effects. If the issue is persistent, it is better to talk to your GP.

Can I use Piriton with paracetamol or ibuprofen?

Yes, for the majority of people, it is safe to use Piriton with such everyday painkillers as paracetamol or ibuprofen because they work in different ways in the body. However, if you are on multiple medications or suffering from some illness like migraines or chronic pain, seek the advice of a pharmacist on how to use medicines in combination, especially if you are already taking some cold or flu medicine that contains antihistamines.

How long does Piriton take to work?

Piriton typically begins to work within 30 minutes to an hour, and its effects last approximately 4 to 6 hours. Because it's relatively fast-acting, it's helpful in cases of unexpected allergic reactions, reactions to insect bites, or exposure to pets. Always schedule your activities around the potential sedating effects, particularly at the beginning.

Can I take Piriton for a prolonged period?

Piriton is not usually recommended for long-term, routine use except on medical grounds. This is due to the risk of side effects, such as drowsiness, confusion, and dry mouth. If you find that you need to take an antihistamine weekly or so for several months, a non-drowsy type, such as cetirizine or loratadine, is usually preferred and better tolerated over the long term.

Why is Piriton not recommended for children under 6 years old?

The tablets are unsuitable for young children due to the fixed dose and risk of side effects like excessive drowsiness or restlessness, which is greater in young age groups. For children under 6 years of age, a liquid (syrup) preparation is available, allowing for more precise dosing and easier administration under adult guidance.

What should I do if I have swallowed too many Piriton tablets accidentally?

If you or somebody else has taken an overdose, seek medical attention at once, even if you feel fine. Overdose symptoms include drowsiness, fast and irregular heartbeats, staggering, or confusion. Don't sleep it off — call 111 or go to A&E if you are unsure.

Does Piriton build up in the body or affect concentration long-term?

While it doesn't build up as some drugs do, regular or high-dose use can lead to long-term drowsiness, especially in elderly subjects. Some people have reduced alertness or impaired memory with long-term use. In patients who need frequent antihistamine use, transfer to a newer non-sedating type is often advised.