Antihistamine and Decongestant combination
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
This is a combination medicine that contains two active ingredients: chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine that reduces sneezing, runny nose and itching) and phenylephrine (a decongestant that opens up blocked nose). Together, they relieve cold and allergy symptoms.
Blocks H1 histamine receptors to reduce allergic symptoms (itching, sneezing, watery eyes) while activating α1-adrenergic receptors to cause vasoconstriction, thereby decreasing nasal and sinus congestion.
Available Over The Counter
Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.
Is Chlorpheniramine safe to take with another drug?
Check with multiple drugs →Explore this drug
Since this medicine is usually taken only when you have symptoms, there is no strict schedule. If you are taking it regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one and never double up.
This medicine can make you very drowsy, so do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking it, especially okada riders and drivers. Always buy from a registered pharmacy, not roadside vendors, to ensure you are getting genuine medicine. Do not combine multiple cold and catarrh medicines together as they may contain the same ingredients and cause an overdose.
Avoid drinking alcohol while using this medicine as it can make drowsiness much worse. Do not take it together with other cold medicines or antihistamines as this can lead to an overdose of similar ingredients. If you are taking blood pressure medicine, talk to your doctor first because phenylephrine can raise your blood pressure.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Chlorpheniramine with your other drugs?
This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless your doctor specifically tells you to take it, so consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, as Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on windowsills or in your car. Keep the container tightly closed to protect from humidity. Always keep out of reach of children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.