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Carbinoxamine for Allergic Conjunctivitis - An Overview.

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A first-generation antihistamine called Carbinoxamine is used to treat moderate allergic responses. Read further to know more.

Written by

Dr. Kinjal Shah

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Asha Juliet Barboza

Published At September 26, 2023
Reviewed AtSeptember 26, 2023

Overview

Carbinoxamine belongs to the anticholinergic and antihistamine group of drugs. It is used to treat allergic conjunctivitis, hay fever, vasomotor rhinitis (inflammation of nasal tissues), mild urticaria (rash on the skin), angioedema (fluid filled swelling on the skin), and dermatographism (eruption on the skin due to trauma). A histamine antagonist, especially an H1-antagonist, is Carbinoxamine. The levorotatory isomer's maleic acid salt is marketed as the prescription medication Rotoxamine.

It was first used in medicine in 1953 after receiving a patent in 1947. Carbinoxamine is sold alone in many nations worldwide, combined with decongestants like Pseudoephedrine and with additional substances including Paracetamol, Aspirin, and Codeine.

How Does Carbinoxamine Work?

When an allergen is present, the immune system releases the chemical histamine, which is how Carboxamide works. Histamine attaches to certain receptors in the body and produces a range of allergy symptoms, such as swelling, redness, and itching.

A first-generation antihistamine called Carbinoxamine inhibits or antagonizes histamine receptors, especially the H1 receptors. Histamine cannot link to these receptors or cause its effects since Carbinoxamine binds to them.

Carbinoxamine aids in easing or preventing allergic response symptoms by inhibiting the activity of histamine. Carbinoxamine helps treat allergic conjunctivitis by reducing symptoms brought on by histamine releases, such as ocular irritation, redness, wetness, and discomfort.

Dose and Dosage Forms

For allergic conjunctivitis and other allergic disorders, the typical dosage of Carbinoxamine might change with the patient's age, weight, and intensity of their symptoms. The best course of action is to speak with a medical expert to establish the right dosage for the particular circumstance. The following are basic recommendations regarding Carbinoxamine dosage:

  • A Tablet Form of Carbinoxamine

  1. Adults: Adults should take four to six milligrams (mg) every four to six hours, not more than 24 mg in a 24-hour period.

  2. Pediatric Dosage for Kids Two Years of Age and Older: The dosage is determined by the child's weight and is normally administered every four to six hours at a rate of around 0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight.

  • Carbinoxamine Syrup (Liquid): The Carbinoxamine content in the syrup might differ. The concentrations of one milligram per milliliter (mg/ml) and four milligrams per five milliliters are typical.

  1. Adults and Children Over the Age of 12: These are normally advised to take four to six mg each four to six hours.

  2. Pediatric Dosage for Kids Two Years of Age and Older: The dosage is determined by the child's weight and is normally administered every four to six hours at a rate of around 0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight.

Directions

The following are some general guidelines for using Carbinoxamine:

  1. Check the Label: Read the directions on the medication's label and any additional patient information leaflets very carefully. Learn about the suggested dose, safety measures, and any adverse effects.

  2. Dosage: Follow the doctor's instructions for taking Carbinoxamine exactly. Depending on the age, weight, and severity of the symptoms, the dose may change. Observe the dosage and use guidelines.

  3. Timing: Follow the directions for taking Carbinoxamine. While some prescriptions only need to be taken once per day, others could need to be taken several times throughout the day. Observe the time recommendations that the healthcare provider has given.

  4. Administration: Carbinoxamine is offered in a number of dosage forms, including pills and liquid preparations. The drug should be taken as instructed by the healthcare provider.

  5. Dietary and Beverage Concerns: Carbinoxamine may normally be taken with or without meals; however, there are some dietary and beverage concerns. However, consuming it with food or milk may help calm the stomach. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Carbinoxamine since it might worsen the drug's sedative effect.

  6. Duration: Follow the recommended course of therapy for the specified amount of time. Even if symptoms become better, do not stop taking the drug without first consulting a healthcare practitioner. A return of symptoms may occur if one stops taking the medicine suddenly.

  7. Precautions: Before beginning to use Carbinoxamine, the doctor should know about any additional drugs, dietary supplements, or health issues. Carbinoxamine may interact with certain drugs or medical conditions, requiring dosage modifications.

Warnings

  1. Reactions Caused by Allergies: Some people may be allergic or hypersensitive to Carbinoxamine or other antihistamines. Seek emergency medical assistance if symptoms, including a rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or breathing difficulties are present.

  2. Sedation and Drowsiness: Carbinoxamine can make a person drowsy and decrease the ability to stay attentive and coordinate movements. Alcohol and other drugs that slow down the central nervous system can make Carbinoxamine more sedating.

  3. Pre-existing Problems: If a person has any existing conditions, such as glaucoma, asthma, urinary retention, gastrointestinal blockage, high blood pressure, or liver illness, let the doctor know. Carbinoxamine may exacerbate specific problems or call for dosage modifications.

  4. Drug Interactions: Carbinoxamine may interact with various prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements as well as other types of medicine. To be sure there are no potential interactions, let the doctor know about every medicine.

For Patients

What Is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

The thin, transparent tissue that covers the front of the eye and the inside of the eyelids, known as the conjunctiva, becomes inflamed when someone has allergic conjunctivitis. It occurs due to an allergic reaction to particular compounds known as allergens. An individual with allergic conjunctivitis experiences histamine release and other chemical reactions when they come into touch with an allergen, such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or certain chemicals. A number of symptoms are brought on by histamine's ability to swell and inflame the blood vessels in the conjunctiva. The following list of allergic conjunctivitis symptoms is common:

  1. Itching: Allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by irritated and itchy eyes. Itching can range from moderate to severe and can be very uncomfortable.

  2. Redness: Inflammation causes the blood vessels in the eyes to swell, giving them a red or bloodshot appearance.

  3. Eye-Watering: Allergic conjunctivitis frequently results in severe eye tears or eye-watering.

  4. Swelling: Conjunctiva swelling might result in enlarged eyelids and conjunctival swelling.

  5. The Sensation of Burning or Stinging: Allergic conjunctivitis may cause a burning or stinging sensation in the eyes.

  6. Light Sensitivity: Bright light, such as natural or artificial light, can make the eyes uncomfortable or more sensitive.

  7. Discharge: The eyes may occasionally produce a clear or somewhat thick, stringy discharge.

Learn More About Carbinoxamine

Before Starting Carbinoxamine

It is crucial to let the doctor know about any current or past illnesses, drugs, or dietary supplements before beginning Carbinoxamine. They might have to change the dosage or keep an eye out for any possible side effects or medication interactions. Carbinoxamine may interfere with other medications, so it is crucial to let the doctor know about all the drugs.

When and Why to Take Carbinoxamine?

Carbinoxamine is primarily used to treat allergic conjunctivitis and other allergic disease symptoms. When and why Carbinoxamine may be taken are listed below:

  1. When there are allergic conjunctivitis symptoms, including itching, redness, wetness, and pain in the eyes, an individual can take Carbinoxamine. By preventing the activity of histamine, which is produced during an allergic response, it aids in the relief of these symptoms.

  2. Carbinoxamine is also used to treat allergic rhinitis, which manifests as post-nasal drip, runny or stuffy nose, itching in the throat or nose, and sneezing. By preventing the effects of histamine, it aids in the relief of these symptoms.

  3. Carbinoxamine can be used to treat a variety of allergic disorders, including allergic dermatitis, hives (reddened skin bumps), and allergic responses to bee or wasp stings or bites. It can aid in reducing other associated symptoms, including edema and itching.

  4. Carbinoxamine can be used to treat a variety of allergic and non-allergic disorders, including eczema (itchy and flaky skin), dermatitis (skin issues), and insect bites, that induce pruritus (itching). By preventing histamine and other itch-producing molecules, it helps to lessen itching.

How Effective Is Carbinoxamine?

Generally speaking, Carbinoxamine is thought to be useful in treating allergy-related symptoms. However, the degree of efficacy may change based on the patient, the illness being treated, and other elements, including the intensity of the symptoms and the length of the course of treatment.

Clinical investigations have demonstrated the efficacy of Carbinoxamine in reducing allergic rhinitis and pruritus symptoms. For instance, individuals who got Carbinoxamine in research comparing it to a placebo reported much fewer itching and other associated symptoms than those who received the placebo.

Carbinoxamine can aid in the relief of symptoms such as eye irritation, redness, and watering when used to treat allergic conjunctivitis. It is important to note that Carbinoxamine is not recommended for the treatment of allergic conjunctivitis and that antihistamine eye drops may work better in this situation.

What Are the Side Effects of Carbinoxamine?

The following are some typical adverse effects of Carbinoxamine:

  1. Drowsiness: Carbinoxamine has a sedative effect that may make a person feel sleepy or drowsy. This negative impact may make it difficult to focus or operate machines. It is advisable to wait until Carbinoxamine effects before driving or doing other tasks that call for attentiveness.

  2. Dry Mouth: Carbinoxamine may result in dry mouth or oral irritation. Drinking plenty of water, sucking on ice chips, and eating sugarless gum can all assist with this sensation.

  3. Eyesight Blur: Carbinoxamine may momentarily impair eyesight and result in vision blur. Avoid visual-demanding activities, especially in the early phases of therapy.

  4. Dizziness: Those who use Carbinoxamine occasionally report feeling lightheaded or dizzy. Avoid making rapid movements or standing up fast from a lying or seated posture to reduce the risk of falls.

  5. Urinary Retention: Carbinoxamine's effects on the urinary system might result in incontinence or difficulty urinating.

  6. Effects on the Digestive System: Carbinoxamine may result in gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain, or constipation. These symptoms can be controlled by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and including foods high in fiber.

  7. Increased Heart Rate: Carbinoxamine can occasionally make people feel like their hearts are racing or have palpitations. Before beginning Carbinoxamine therapy, it is crucial to let the doctor know about the history of heart disease, if present.

  8. Allergic Reactions: Rarely, but occasionally, some people may have an adverse response to Carbinoxamine. If symptoms like a rash, hives, swelling, breathing difficulties, or pressure in the chest are present, it is important to consult a doctor.

How to Take Carbinoxamine?

Following are a few basic recommendations for utilizing Carbinoxamine:

  1. Follow the dose and administration recommendations given by the doctor when using Carbinoxamine.

  2. Tablets containing Carbinoxamine should be consumed whole with a glass of water. The pills must not be chewed, crushed, or broken.

  3. Use a specialized measuring tool to take Carbinoxamine in liquid form to guarantee a proper dose. Never measure medicine with a regular spoon since doing so might lead to an erroneous dose.

  4. To keep constant blood levels of the drug, take Carbinoxamine at the same time each day.

  5. Carbinoxamine should not be used more than the stated dosage or more frequently than advised. The chance of adverse consequences may rise.

  6. Avoid using Carbinoxamine with alcoholic beverages or other sedatives since this may increase the likelihood of sleepiness or lack of coordination.

What if the Dose Is Missed?

  1. The missing dosage should be taken as soon as recalled. Skip the missed dosage and go on with the usual dosing regimen if the next scheduled dose is already approaching. To make up for a missing dosage, do not double the dose.

  2. To ensure that the drug works as intended, it is critical to stick to the dose plan consistently. Consider setting reminders or alarms to help it remember and avoid missing doses. Consult a healthcare practitioner if there are any worries or questions regarding missing doses or how to manage the medication regimen.

How to Treat Overdose?

Carbinoxamine overdose can be potentially dangerous and calls for immediate medical care. The following actions need to be taken:

  1. Call the Local Poison Control Center or the Emergency Services: Tell them about the possible Carbinoxamine overdose.

  2. Receive Medical Attention: In a hospital environment, doctors will diagnose the problem and administer the proper treatments.

  3. Monitor Vital Signs and Symptoms: Medical staff will keep an eye on the vital indicators, including heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration rate, to make sure they stay stable.

  4. Follow-up Care: After receiving urgent overdose treatment, take any additional advice given by healthcare experts. To protect the safety and well-being, they could suggest observation, further monitoring, or other appropriate measures.

For Doctors

Indications

The following uses of Carbinoxamine are frequently employed for its various indications:

  1. Carbinoxamine is recommended for the treatment of allergic rhinitis symptoms, including sneezing, runny or itchy nose, and nasal congestion brought on by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.

  2. Although Carbinoxamine is not prescribed for allergic conjunctivitis, it may be used off-label to treat its symptoms, such as eye irritation, redness, and watering.

  3. Carbinoxamine can be used to treat a variety of allergic and non-allergic disorders that cause itching, such as skin allergies, dermatitis, eczema, and insect bites.

  4. Carbinoxamine may be used to treat the itchy, raised skin rashes associated with acute urticaria (hives), often known as hives.

  5. Carbinoxamine can aid in reducing the itching, redness, and other symptoms brought on by allergic skin diseases.

Dosing

The dosage of Carbinoxamine might differ based on a number of variables, including the precise indication, the patient's age, weight, and reaction.

Allergic Rhinitis, Itching (Pruritus), And Hives (Urticaria):

  1. Adults and Kids Over the Age of 12: A four milligram oral dose every four to six hours, up to a maximum of 24 milligrams per day.

  2. Children Aged Six to 12: A typical oral dosing recommendation is two mg every four to six hours, with a daily maximum dose of 12 mg.

  3. Children Under the Age of Six: A healthcare provider should decide on the dosage depending on the child's age, weight, and individual condition.

It is vital to remember that Carbinoxamine may be offered in a variety of dosage forms, including pills, capsules, and liquids, and that the medication's concentration may change. Always adhere to the dosage recommendations included with the particular formulation.

Dose Considerations:

Individual Response:

Depending on how a patient reacts to the drug, the amount of Carbinoxamine may need to be changed. As necessary, a healthcare provider may adjust the dosage.

  1. Impairment of the Kidneys or Liver: Individuals who have these conditions may need dose changes. For guidance on the proper dosage in certain circumstances, speak with the healthcare provider.

  2. Geriatric Patients: The effects of Carbinoxamine could be felt more strongly in elderly people. In this demographic, lower doses or dosage changes may be necessary.

Pharmacology

Mechanism of Action

Carbinoxamine functions by inhibiting the actions of histamine, a substance the body releases in reaction to allergens and which can result in symptoms including itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. Carbinoxamine inhibits histamine from inducing an allergic reaction by challenging it to bind to H1 receptors. Additionally, Carbinoxamine contains calming and anticholinergic characteristics that can ease anxiety, coughing, and nasal and bronchial secretions.

Pharmacodynamics

A member of the Ethanolamine class of first-generation antihistamines is Carbinoxamine. Antihistamines made of Ethanolamine have strong antimuscarinic action and cause noticeable drowsiness in the majority of patients. The medication also manages irritable cough, motion sickness-related nausea, vomiting, and vertigo, in addition to the typical allergy symptoms. It is frequently used to treat minor forms of Parkinson's disease as well as extrapyramidal symptoms brought on by medications. Like Cromolyn and Nedocromil, Carbinoxamine competes with free histamine for binding to HA-receptor sites rather than blocking histamine release. The actions of histamine on HA receptors in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, uterus, major blood arteries, and bronchial muscle are competitively countered by Carboxyxamine. The antidyskinetic impact of Ethanolamine derivatives is likely due to their higher anticholinergic activity compared to other antihistamines.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Orally administered, Carbinoxamine is readily absorbed. After consumption, it enters circulation quickly through the gastrointestinal system. Following oral administration, the first signs of activity usually appear 15 to 30 minutes later. The amount of food in the stomach is one of several factors that can affect how well Carbinoxamine is absorbed. The efficacy of Carbinoxamine is not dramatically impacted by taking it with meals, while it may somewhat delay its absorption.

Distribution:

Carbinoxamine is transported throughout the body after entering circulation. The central nervous system is where it can pass the blood-brain barrier and affect histamine receptors. Additionally, Carbinoxamine is delivered to tissues and organs with H1 receptors, including the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, the skin, and blood vessels.

Metabolism:

Carbinoxamine undergoes a thorough metabolic process in the liver. Hepatic enzymes, such as the cytochrome P450 enzymes, are principally responsible for its metabolism. The particular Carbinoxamine metabolic pathways and metabolites have not been well described. To create different metabolites, Carbinoxamine is known to go through N-demethylation, hydroxylation, and conjugation processes.

Excretion:

Urine and feces are the main excretion pathways for Carbinoxamine metabolites. The precise ratios of Carbinoxamine and its metabolites excreted in the feces and urine are not well known. Individual differences may affect the elimination half-life of Carbinoxamine; however, it typically lasts between three to eight hours.

Toxicity

Clinical Toxicity

  1. Effects on the Central Nervous System: Side effects on the central nervous system (CNS) include sleepiness, sedation, dizziness, decreased coordination, and disorientation after taking large doses of Carbinoxamine or an overdose. These side effects may impair mental and physical skills and raise the possibility of mishaps or falls.

  2. Effects of Carbinoxamine’s Anticholinergic Properties: Carbinoxamine possesses anticholinergic characteristics, which may cause adverse effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, urine retention, constipation, and elevated heart rate. Higher dosages or those who are more susceptible to these side effects from anticholinergic drugs are more likely to experience them.

  3. Hypersensitivity Responses: Although uncommon, Carbinoxamine hypersensitivity responses can happen and cause symptoms including skin rash, itching, swelling, and breathing difficulties. Medical treatment must be given right away for these reactions.

Non-clinical Toxicity

  1. Effects on Activity: Animal studies have shown that Carbinoxamine has sedative and hypnotic qualities that reduce activity and induce sleep.

  2. Anticholinergic Effects: Animal studies have shown the anticholinergic effects of Carbinoxamine, including reduced salivation, decreased gastrointestinal motility, and elevated heart rate. These effects are similar to clinical findings.

  3. Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity: High doses of Carbinoxamine in animal experiments have been linked to harmful effects on fecundity, embryonic development, and fetal size. Reproductive and developmental toxicity. But it is not entirely clear how these discoveries apply to people.

Drug Interactions

Drug interactions with Carbinoxamine include, among others:

  1. Central Nervous System Depressants: Alcohol, Benzodiazepines, and opioids are all central nervous system (CNS) depressants, and Carbinoxamine contains sedative qualities that can intensify their effects. Combining these medications can raise the risk of respiratory depression, sleepiness, and other side effects, including sedation and reduced coordination.

  2. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): MAOIs are a group of drugs used to treat mental disorders, including depression. When used with MAOIs or within two weeks after stopping MAOI medication, Carbinoxamine can cause a hypertensive crisis, a potentially fatal illness.

  3. Drugs that Block Cholinesterase: Because Carbinoxamine blocks cholinesterase, it can have additive side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, impaired vision, and urine retention when used with other drugs that block cholinesterase.

  4. Drugs that Lengthen the QT Interval: Carbinoxamine can lengthen the QT interval, which is the amount of time that passes between the beginning of the Q wave and the conclusion of the T wave during the heart's electrical cycle. Combining some antibiotics and antipsychotic drugs with other drugs that can also lengthen the QT interval can raise the risk of arrhythmias and other cardiac problems.

Other Specification

  • Pregnancy: Carbinoxamine usage during pregnancy is often not advised, especially during the first trimester. The safety of Carbinoxamine during pregnancy is still largely unknown; however, animal studies have suggested that high dosages may have unfavorable effects on fetal development. As a result, Carbinoxamine should only be taken during pregnancy if the benefits might outweigh the dangers and with a doctor's supervision.

  • Breastfeeding: Carbinoxamine can cross into breast milk and hence it is typically not advised to take it while nursing. The infant may be impacted by Carbinoxamine's sedative and anticholinergic effects, therefore before taking Carbinoxamine while nursing, it is crucial to speak with a medical practitioner to weigh the advantages and dangers and explore other treatment alternatives.

  • Elderly: The sedative and anticholinergic effects of Carbinoxamine may affect elderly people more strongly. Increased disorientation, tiredness, poor coordination, and a higher risk of falling are some symptoms. In this demographic, lower doses or dosage changes may be required. When administering Carbinoxamine to older people, healthcare practitioners should take their general health state and drug regimen into account.

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Dr. Asha Juliet Barboza
Dr. Asha Juliet Barboza

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

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