What is Piriton and what is it used for? Piriton tablets are used to treat the allergic symptoms of hayfever and other allergies. The active ingredient is chlorphenamine maleate, an antihistamine which can help to relieve the symptoms of some allergies and itchy skin rashes. They can be used to treat the itchiness, redness, swelling, tenderness and irritation that can be caused by: • hayfever and other allergies, e.g. pet, house dust mite and mould spore allergies • nettle rash and hives • skin allergies • reactions to food, food additives or medicines • insect bites and stings How to take Piriton: Adults and children aged 12 years and over: Take 1 tablet every 4-6 hours (maximum 6 tablets in 24 hours). Elderly: Take 1 tablet every 4-6 hours (maximum 3 tablets in 24 hours). Children 6-12 years: Dose 0.1mg/kg. Take half a tablet every 4-6 hours (maximum 6 half tablets in 24 hours). Do not give to children under 6 years. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor What you need to know before you take Piriton: Do not take Piriton tablets: • if you have ever had an allergic reaction to chlorphenamine, any other antihistamines or any of the other ingredients (listed in Section 6 of the patient information leaflet) • if you are taking or have taken in the last two weeks monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) prescribed for depression • if you are taking other medicines containing antihistamines, including products for the relief of coughs and colds. Precautions and Warnings: • Talk to your doctor before taking Piriton tablets if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. • Talk to your doctor before you start taking these tablets if you have high blood pressure, epilepsy, an overactive thyroid, glaucoma, enlarged prostate, heart, kidney or liver disease, bronchitis, asthma or other similar respiratory problems. • Be careful when drinking alcohol while using Piriton tablets. It can increase the effects of drinking. • Piriton tablets contain lactose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before using Piriton tablets. • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking these tablets if you are taking any prescribed medicines; particularly phenytoin (for epilepsy) or medicines for anxiety or to help you sleep or anticholinergic drugs (such as psychotropic medications and atropine). • This product may cause dizziness, drowsiness or blurred vision. You should not drive or operate machinery until you are sure you are not affected.
