What is the recommended dose of Bromfed (Brompheniramine) for adults?

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Bromfed Dosage for Adults

The recommended dosage of Bromfed for adults is 10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) every 4 hours, not to exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period. 1

Dosing Information

Bromfed contains brompheniramine maleate, which is an antihistamine used for treating symptoms associated with allergies and upper respiratory conditions. The FDA-approved dosing recommendations are:

  • Adults and children 12 years and older: 10 mL (2 teaspoonfuls) every 4 hours
  • Children 6 to under 12 years: 5 mL (1 teaspoonful) every 4 hours
  • Children 2 to under 6 years: 2.5 mL (½ teaspoonful) every 4 hours
  • Infants 6 months to under 2 years: Dosage to be established by a physician

Important: Do not exceed 6 doses during a 24-hour period 1

Pharmacokinetic Considerations

Brompheniramine has a relatively long half-life of approximately 24.9 ± 9.3 hours and a large volume of distribution (11.7 ± 3.1 L/kg) 2. This contributes to its prolonged antihistaminic effects, with studies showing:

  • Peak serum concentration occurs at approximately 3.1 ± 1.1 hours after administration
  • Significant suppression of histamine-induced wheal response for 3-9 hours
  • Significant suppression of flare response for 3-48 hours
  • Significant suppression of pruritus for 9-24 hours 2

Efficacy and Side Effects

Clinical studies have demonstrated that brompheniramine is effective in reducing symptoms such as:

  • Rhinorrhea (runny nose)
  • Sneezing
  • Cough associated with rhinovirus colds 3

Common Side Effects

Be aware that brompheniramine may cause:

  • Somnolence (drowsiness)
  • Confusion
  • Impaired visuo-motor coordination 4

Administration Tips

  • The medication can be taken with or without food
  • For optimal symptom control, maintain regular dosing intervals
  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, but do not double up doses
  • Consider timing doses to avoid periods when alertness is required, as drowsiness is a common side effect

Cautions and Contraindications

Exercise caution when prescribing Bromfed to patients with:

  • Glaucoma
  • Urinary retention
  • Cardiovascular conditions
  • Respiratory conditions like asthma
  • Patients operating machinery or driving vehicles

Monitoring

Monitor patients for:

  • Symptom relief
  • Side effects, particularly sedation
  • Drug interactions, especially with other CNS depressants

The regular dosing schedule of every 4 hours provides consistent symptom relief while maintaining therapeutic blood levels throughout the day.

References

Research

The pharmacokinetics and antihistaminic effects of brompheniramine.

The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology, 1982

Research

Efficacy of brompheniramine maleate for the treatment of rhinovirus colds.

Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, 1997

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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