How does it work?

Trimeprazine is derived from a group of medicines called phenothiazines, and is part of the family of sedating antihistamines. Histamine is a chemical produced by the body. It is stored in cells (mast cells) in almost all tissues of the body. When the body reacts to a foreign substance (an allergen e.g. flower pollen), the mast cells release their stores of histamine. Histamine may then bind to receptors (H-1 receptors) in many areas of the body causing an increase in blood flow to the area of the allergy and the release of other chemicals that add to the allergic response. This stimulates the symptoms of an allergic reaction such as inflammation of the skin, airways or tissues, rashes, itching of the skin, eyes or nose, nasal congestion or narrowing of the airways. Trimeprazine acts by blocking the binding of histamine to receptors in the body resulting in the prevention or relief of the typical symptoms of an allergic reaction. Histamine may be released from and act in a small (localised) area of the body e.g the nose. Alternatively, histamine can result in a serious or complete body reaction e.g. anaphylactic reaction. Trimeprazine is only useful for the prevention or relief of localised or less serious allergies such as an itchy rash (rather than very serious allergic reactions). Trimperazine is also thought to change the person's perception of how severe the itch is. Trimeprazine is called a sedating anti-histamine as it enters the brain in significant quantities and causes drowsiness. As a result it may be used in children to provide sedation prior to minor procedures or surgery.

What is it used for?

Allergic skin conditions causing itch (pruritis) or an itchy rash (urticaria)

Medicine used in children to relieve anxiety, and cause sedation, prior to surgery

Warning!

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided.

Avoid exposure to strong sunlight if taking high doses of this medicine.

Notify your doctor if you develop a fever or infection while taking this medicine.

Consult your doctor if you experience yellowing of the eyes or skin, or darkened urine while taking this medicine, as these may be signs of jaundice. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking this medicine if you do develop jaundice.

Use with caution in

Elderly people (particularly in very hot or very cold weather)

Heart disease

Low blood potassium levels (hypokalaemia)

Low volume of circulating blood (hypovolaemia)

Not to be used in

Abnormal muscle weakness

Allergy to phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine and prochlorperazine

Children under 2 years of age

Decreased kidney function

Decreased liver function

Enlarged prostate gland

Epilepsy

History of closed angle glaucoma

Hypothyroidism

Parkinson's disease

Tumour of the adrenal gland (phaeochromocytoma)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine is not recommended for use in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine passes into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended when taking this medicine. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

Go To Next Page>>
The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved