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Antihistamine

Carbinoxamine is an antihistamine used to treat various allergy symptoms like hay fever, itchy eyes, and skin rashes. It works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic reactions. Because it can cause drowsiness and has specific risks for young children and nursing mothers, it should be used with caution.

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

Brand names:CLISTIN

Used for
Seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms (rhinitis)Allergic eye irritation (conjunctivitis)Mild skin allergies like hives (urticaria) and swelling (angioedema)Skin sensitivity (dermatographism)Helping manage severe allergic reactions alongside epinephrineReducing the severity of allergic reactions to blood or plasma
Conditions
AllergiesHay feverSkin allergiesEye allergies
Class
AntihistamineH1 receptor antagonistRespiratoryIntegumentary (Skin)Ocular (Eyes)GastrointestinalCentral Nervous System

How to take

FormsOral suspension (extended release), Tablets
RoutesOral

Adults usually take 6 mg (1 tablet) three to four times a day. Dosage should be adjusted based on how well the person responds and the severity of their symptoms. It should be taken on an empty stomach with water.

Dosage must be individualized for each patient.

Key warnings

  • ·Do not use in children under 2 years old 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 Carbinoxamine
  • ·People taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Side effects

Common

Dry mouth, nose, and throatSleepiness and dizzinessNausea, vomiting, or diarrheaConfusion or nervousnessBlurred visionHeadacheIncreased heart rate

Serious

  • ·Allergic shock (anaphylactic shock)
  • ·Hallucinations or convulsions (especially in children)
  • ·Difficulty urinating or urinary retention
  • ·Blood disorders like hemolytic anemia or low platelet counts
  • ·Severe skin reactions or rashes
  • ·Breathing difficulties like wheezing or chest tightness

Seek help if

  • ·Anaphylactic shock
  • ·Convulsions
  • ·Difficulty breathing
  • ·Severe skin rash

Interactions

  • ·Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can increase the drying effects of Carbinoxamine.
  • ·Alcohol and other drugs that cause sleepiness (sedatives, tranquilizers) can increase the effects of Carbinoxamine.
FoodCarbinoxamine should be taken on an empty stomach with water.
AlcoholCarbinoxamine increases the effects of alcohol.

Special populations

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

BreastfeedingDo not use Carbinoxamine if you are breastfeeding, as it poses a higher risk to infants and newborns.

PediatricCarbinoxamine is not for use in children under 2 years old. In young children, it may cause excitement or decreased mental alertness.

GeriatricOlder adults (60+) are more sensitive to side effects like dizziness, sleepiness, and low blood pressure. Doctors should start with a lower dose due to changes in how the body processes drugs.

Talk to your doctor

Monitor

  • ·Dizziness and sedation levels
  • ·Blood pressure
  • ·Urinary patterns
  • ·Skin rashes or swelling

Questions to ask

  • ·Is Carbinoxamine safe for my specific medical conditions?
  • ·Are there any interactions with my current medications?
  • ·What is the correct dose for my symptoms?
  • ·Should I be concerned about the sedative effects?

Pharmacokinetics

Half-life10 to 20 hours
BioavailabilityWell absorbed from the GI tract
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 may cause hallucinations, seizures, or death. Treatment is focused on supporting the patient's vital signs.

StorageStore between 68° to 77°F in a tight, light-resistant container with a child-resistant lid.

Ingredients

Allergens

lactose

Inactive

anhydrous lactosemagnesium stearatemicrocrystalline cellulosesodium starch glycolatetype A potato starch

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