Nurses Compass
Drug Guide
Tripelennamine Citrate
Classification
Therapeutic: Antihistamine, H1 receptor antagonist
Pharmacological: First-generation antihistamine
FDA Approved Indications
- Relief of allergy symptoms (nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes)
Mechanism of Action
Tripelennamine blocks H1 histamine receptors, preventing the actions of histamine and thus alleviating allergic symptoms.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically, 25-50 mg every 4-6 hours as needed. Max dose depends on clinical response.
Pediatric: Dose varies; generally 1-2 mg/kg per dose every 4-6 hours, with careful monitoring.
Geriatric: Start with lower doses due to increased sensitivity and potential for anticholinergic effects.
Renal Impairment: Adjust dose based on severity of impairment.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; no specific dosage adjustments established.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed from gastrointestinal tract.
Distribution: Widely distributed; crosses blood-brain barrier.
Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver.
Excretion: Excreted mainly in urine.
Half Life: Approximately 4-6 hours.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to tripelennamine or other antihistamines.
- Acute asthma attacks.
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, enlarged prostate, cardiovascular disease, or elderly patients due to anticholinergic effects.
- Pregnancy category C; use only if clearly necessary.
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Sedation, drowsiness (Common)
- Anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention) (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Cardiovascular effects (tachycardia, hypotension) (Less common)
- Allergic reactions (rash, urticaria) (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Additive sedative effects with other CNS depressants (alcohol, hypnotics).
- Enhanced anticholinergic effects with other anticholinergic drugs.
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for sedation, anticholinergic side effects, and effectiveness in symptom control.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for falls due to sedation or anticholinergic effects.
- Impaired comfort due to allergy symptoms.
Implementation: Administer as directed, caution with operating machinery or driving.
Evaluation: Assess relief of allergy symptoms and monitor for adverse effects.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Advise about sedative effects, caution when driving or operating machinery.
- Instruct to avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.
- Report any severe side effects or allergic reactions.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- None specified.
Genetic Factors: No well-established genetic factors affecting response.
Lab Test Interference: None.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe anticholinergic symptoms, hallucinations, seizures, coma.
Treatment: Supportive care; activated charcoal if ingestion recent; IV fluids; manage symptoms with benzodiazepines if seizures occur.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions.