What is Carbinoxamine maleate used for?

It is used to treat symptoms of seasonal allergies, hay fever, eye allergies, and mild skin reactions like hives.

Can I take Carbinoxamine maleate if I am breastfeeding?

No, you should not use Carbinoxamine maleate while nursing because of the higher risk to infants.

Is Carbinoxamine maleate safe for toddlers?

No, Carbinoxamine maleate should not be used in children younger than 2 years of age.

What should I do if I take too much Carbinoxamine maleate?

An overdose can cause hallucinations or seizures in children; seek medical attention immediately as treatment is based on supporting vital signs.

Will Carbinoxamine maleate make me sleepy?

Yes, sedation and sleepiness are very common side effects of this medication.

Can I take Carbinoxamine maleate with alcohol?

No, alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Carbinoxamine maleate.

How should I take Carbinoxamine maleate for best results?

It is best taken on an empty stomach with water.

Does Carbinoxamine maleate interact with antidepressants?

Yes, it can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which may increase the drying effects of the drug.

Carbinoxamine Maleate | CAS 3505-38-2 | GVNWHCVWDRNXAZ

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Antihistamine

Carbinoxamine maleate is an antihistamine used to treat symptoms of allergies, such as seasonal allergies, hay fever, and skin reactions like hives. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions. It also has drying and sleep-inducing effects.

How it worksCarbinoxamine maleate works by competing with histamine at H1 receptor sites in the blood vessels, respiratory tract, and digestive tract to block allergic responses.

Brand names:KARBINAL ER

Used for

Seasonal and year-round allergic rhinitis (hay fever)Vasomotor rhinitisAllergies in the eyes (allergic conjunctivitis) caused by food or inhalantsMild skin allergies like hives (urticaria) and swelling (angioedema)DermatographismHelping manage severe allergic reactions when used alongside epinephrineReducing the severity of allergic reactions to blood or plasma

Conditions

Seasonal allergiesPerennial allergiesVasomotor rhinitisSkin manifestations of allergies

Class

AntihistamineH1 receptor antagonistRespiratorySkinEyesDigestiveCentral Nervous System

How to take

FormsOral suspension (extended release), Tablets

RoutesOral

Adult doses are usually individualized. A common adult dose is one 6 mg tablet taken 3 to 4 times daily. It should be taken on an empty stomach with water.

Do not use in children under 2 years old.

Key warnings

·Do not use in children under 2 years of age due to the risk of death.
·Use caution if you have narrow-angle glaucoma, stomach ulcers, or prostate issues.
·Elderly patients are more likely to experience dizziness, sedation, and low blood pressure.

Do not use if

·Children younger than 2 years of age
·Nursing mothers
·People with a known allergy to this drug
·People taking monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) therapy

Side effects

Common

Dry mouth, nose, and throatSleepiness or sedationDizzinessNausea, vomiting, or diarrheaConstipationBlurred visionHeadacheConfusion or restlessness

Serious

·Anaphylactic shock
·Hallucinations or convulsions (especially in children)
·Tremors or seizures
·Heart palpitations or fast heartbeat
·Blood disorders like hemolytic anemia or low platelets
·Difficulty urinating or urinary retention

Seek help if

·Anaphylactic shock
·Convulsions
·Difficulty breathing
·Rapid heartbeat

Interactions

·Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can increase the drying effects of this drug.
·Alcohol and other drugs that cause sleepiness (sedatives, tranquilizers) can increase the sedative effects of Carbinoxamine maleate.

FoodTake on an empty stomach with water.

AlcoholCarbinoxamine maleate has additive effects with alcohol, meaning it can make the effects of alcohol stronger.

Special populations

PregnancyCarbinoxamine maleate should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Animal studies have not been done to confirm if it causes harm to a fetus.

BreastfeedingDo not use this medication if you are nursing, as it may pose a risk to infants and newborns.

PediatricThis drug is not for children under 2 years old. In young children, it may cause excitement or decrease mental alertness.

GeriatricOlder adults (60+) may be more sensitive to this drug and might experience increased dizziness, sleepiness, or low blood pressure.

Talk to your doctor

Monitor

·Drowsiness and coordination
·Heart rate and blood pressure
·Urinary habits
·Skin rashes

Questions to ask

·Should I avoid this if I have glaucoma or stomach ulcers?
·Is it safe to take if I am on MAOIs?
·How will this affect my alertness during the day?

Pharmacokinetics

Half-life10 to 20 hours

MetabolismExtensively metabolized by the liver

ExcretionExcreted in the urine as inactive metabolites within 24 hours

Practical

OverdoseOverdose can cause anything from extreme sleepiness to over-stimulation. In children, it can lead to hallucinations, seizures, or death. Treatment is based on managing symptoms.

StorageStore at room temperature between 68° to 77°F in a tight, light-resistant container.

Ingredients

Allergens

lactose

Inactive

anhydrous lactosemagnesium stearatemicrocrystalline cellulosesodium starch glycolatetype A potato

Educational summary derived from FDA labeling, AI-assisted. Not medical advice — consult a healthcare professional. Updated 2026-04-25.