Piriton (Chlorpheniramine) IV Availability
Yes, Piriton (chlorpheniramine) is available in intravenous form and can be administered IV or IM in acute settings, particularly for anaphylactic reactions.
Clinical Formulations and Routes
Chlorpheniramine is available for parenteral administration via both intravenous and intramuscular routes. 1 The drug can be given IV slowly or IM, with specific dosing protocols established for emergency situations. 2
- IV/IM administration is documented and widely used in clinical practice, particularly in anaesthesia and critical care settings. 1
- Subcutaneous routes have also been documented, though less commonly used. 2
- The parenteral formulation is distinct from the more common oral tablets, capsules, and syrups. 2
Dosing for Anaphylaxis (Secondary Management)
The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland provides clear IV dosing guidelines for chlorpheniramine in anaphylactic reactions:
Adult Dosing
- 10 mg IV (or IM) slowly for patients >12 years. 1
Pediatric Dosing
- 6-12 years: 5 mg IV or IM slowly. 1
- 6 months to 6 years: 2.5 mg IV or IM slowly. 1
- <6 months: 250 µg/kg IV or IM slowly. 1
Clinical Context and Timing
- Chlorpheniramine IV is administered as secondary management in anaphylaxis, after initial stabilization with adrenaline and fluid resuscitation. 1
- It should be given alongside hydrocortisone 200 mg IV (adult dose) as part of the standard anaphylaxis protocol. 1
- The IV route allows for rapid onset in acute allergic emergencies where oral administration is not feasible. 1
Important Caveats
- Administer IV chlorpheniramine slowly to minimize adverse effects. 1
- The parenteral route bypasses the significant first-pass metabolism that limits oral bioavailability (only 25-45% reaches systemic circulation orally). 2, 3, 4
- IV access must be established before administration; if unavailable, the IM route is an acceptable alternative. 1