Drug Guide
Triprolidine Hydrochloride
Classification
Therapeutic: Antihistamine, Alleviates allergy symptoms
Pharmacological: H1-antagonist
FDA Approved Indications
- Relief of allergy symptoms such as hay fever, rhinitis, conjunctivitis, urticaria
Mechanism of Action
Triprolidine is a reversible H1 receptor antagonist that competes with histamine for binding at H1 receptor sites on effector cells in the GI tract, blood vessels, and respiratory tract, thereby preventing smooth muscle constriction and capillary permeability associated with allergic responses.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Usually 2-4 mg every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 24 mg/day
Pediatric: Typically 0.25-0.5 mg/kg/day divided into 3-4 doses, not exceeding adult dose; specific pediatric dosing varies by age and weight
Geriatric: Start at the lower end of dosing; monitor for increased sensitivity to side effects
Renal Impairment: Use with caution; may require dose adjustment, as elimination may be affected
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; monitor closely; no specific adjustment established
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
Distribution: Widely distributed; crosses the blood-brain barrier
Metabolism: Extensively metabolized in the liver
Excretion: Primarily excreted in urine
Half Life: Approx. 4-6 hours, may be prolonged in hepatic or renal impairment
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to triprolidine or other antihistamines
- Use cautiously in asthma, glaucoma, urinary retention, and enlarged prostate
Precautions
- Use with caution in elderly, sedated state, or impaired hepatic/renal function
- Potential to cause drowsiness, so caution when operating machinery or driving
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Sedation, drowsiness (Common)
- Dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Anticholinergic effects such as urinary retention, blurred vision, tachycardia (Uncommon)
- Hypersensitivity reactions (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- CNS depressants (increase sedation)
- MAO inhibitors (risk of antihistamine effects)
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor for effectiveness and side effects, especially CNS effects and anticholinergic symptoms
Diagnoses:
- Risk for sedation-related incidents
- Urinary retention
- Dry mucous membranes
Implementation: Administer with food if gastrointestinal upset occurs, monitor sedation levels
Evaluation: Assess symptom relief and side effect profile regularly
Patient/Family Teaching
- Caution about drowsiness and avoid operating heavy machinery
- Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants
- Report any unusual side effects or allergic reactions
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings: N/A
Genetic Factors: None specifically identified
Lab Test Interference: May interfere with allergy skin testing; discontinue prior to testing
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe drowsiness, hallucinations, seizures, dry mouth, tachycardia, urinary retention, hypotension
Treatment: Supportive care, activated charcoal if within 1 hour of ingestion, symptomatic treatment for respiratory and cardiovascular issues, possible IV fluids, and monitoring
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture
Stability: Stable until expiration if stored properly