Home Drug Guide Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride; Triprolidine Hydrochloride

Drug Guide

Generic Name

Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride; Triprolidine Hydrochloride

Brand Names Actifed, Triprolidine And Pseudoephedrine Hydrochlorides, Triprolidine Hydrochloride And Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride, Myfed, Triprolidine And Pseudoephedrine, Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride And Triprolidine Hydrochloride, Histafed, Actahist, Trilitron, Corphed, Triphed, Allerfed

Classification

Therapeutic: Combination decongestant and antihistamine

Pharmacological: Sympathomimetic agent and H1 antihistamine

FDA Approved Indications

Relief of nasal congestion and allergic rhinitis symptoms

Mechanism of Action

Pseudoephedrine acts as a sympathomimetic, causing vasoconstriction in nasal mucosa to relieve congestion. Triprolidine is an H1 antihistamine that blocks histamine receptors, reducing allergy symptoms.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 60 mg pseudoephedrine and 2.5 mg triprolidine every 4-6 hours as needed. Do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours.

Pediatric: Use only if prescribed; dosages vary based on age and weight.

Geriatric: Start with lower doses due to potential for increased sensitivity.

Renal Impairment: Adjustments may be necessary; consult clinical guidelines.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no specific dose adjustment established.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed from gastrointestinal tract.

Distribution: Widely distributed; crosses blood-brain barrier.

Metabolism: Pseudoephedrine minimally metabolized, mainly excreted unchanged. Triprolidine metabolized hepatically.

Excretion: Primarily renal.

Half Life: Pseudoephedrine: ~6 hours; Triprolidine: ~7 hours.

Contraindications

Severe hypertension
Use within 14 days of MAOI therapy
History of hypersensitivity to components

Precautions

Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, BPH, glaucoma, hyperthyroidism, use caution in elderly and those with renal or hepatic impairment.

Adverse Reactions - Common

Insomnia (Common)
Dizziness (Common)
Dry mouth (Common)
Drowsiness (less with triprolidine) (Common)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

Serious hypertensive reactions, especially with excessive dosing or in hypertensive patients (Rare)
Central nervous system stimulation or depression (Rare)
Allergic reactions, including rash, urticaria (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — may cause hypertensive crisis
CNS depressants — enhanced sedation

Drug-Food Interactions

Avoid excessive caffeine — may increase side effects

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Assessment: Monitor blood pressure, cardiovascular status, and response to therapy.

Diagnoses:

Risk for hypertension
Impaired sleep pattern
Potential for CNS depression or stimulation

Implementation: Administer with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset; monitor patient response.

Evaluation: Assess relief of nasal congestion and allergy symptoms, monitor for adverse effects.

Patient/Family Teaching

Take as directed, do not exceed recommended dose.
Avoid alcohol and CNS depressants.
Caution about possible sedation and impairment.
Inform about potential for increased blood pressure.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

Potential for CNS stimulation leading to insomnia, nervousness, or anxiety.
Contraindicated in patients with severe hypertension or on monoamine oxidase inhibitors.

Genetic Factors: N/A

Lab Test Interference: N/A

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Severe hypertension, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, coma, respiratory depression.

Treatment: Supportive care; monitor vital signs; administer medications to control blood pressure; activated charcoal if ingestion was recent; seek emergency care.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.