Products
Chlorphenoxamine is commercially available in the form of a cream (Systral). No preparations are currently registered in many countries.
Structure and properties
Chlorphenoxamine (C18H22ClNO, Mr = 303.8 g/mol) is present in drugs as chlorphenoxamine hydrochloride, a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. Chlorination makes the molecule, which is related to diphenhydramine, more lipophilic and has a higher affinity for skin.
Effects
Chlorphenoxamine (ATC D04AA34) is antipruritic, antihistamine, anticholinergic, and antiallergic. Its properties are based on competitive antagonism at histamine H1 receptors.
Indications
For topical treatment of allergic and pruritic skin disorders. Chlorphenoxamine was also formerly used orally for Parkinson’s disease therapy.
Contraindications
Chlorphenoxamine is contraindicated in hypersensitivity and should not be used extensively in infants and young children. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
There are no known drug-drug interactions with topical use.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects rarely include skin rashes and hypersensitivity reactions.