Pyrilamine maleate

Pyrilamine Maleate is an antihistamine used to treat symptoms of allergic reactions and the common cold. It is also known by its brand names, such as Midol, Nytol, and Tylenol PM.

Pharmacology

Pyrilamine Maleate is a first-generation antihistamine, which means it can cross the blood-brain barrier. This allows it to not only treat peripheral symptoms of allergies, such as itching and sneezing, but also central symptoms, such as insomnia due to its sedative effects. It works by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms.

Uses

Pyrilamine Maleate is used to treat symptoms of the common cold and allergies, such as sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose. It is also used to prevent and treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness caused by motion sickness. Additionally, it can be used as a night-time sleep aid.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Pyrilamine Maleate include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, constipation, stomach upset, blurred vision, decreased coordination, and dry mouth/nose/throat. Serious side effects are rare, but can include mental/mood changes, difficulty urinating, and fast/irregular heartbeat.

Interactions

Pyrilamine Maleate can interact with other medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anxiety medications. It can also interact with alcohol, increasing drowsiness and dizziness.

Precautions

Before taking Pyrilamine Maleate, individuals should inform their healthcare provider if they have any allergies, or if they have a history of breathing problems, glaucoma, heart problems, high blood pressure, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems, overactive thyroid, or urination problems.

See Also

• Antihistamine
• Histamine
• Allergic reactions
• Common cold