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Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution

Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution

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  • ✔️ Relieves hay fever, hives, and insect bite reactions effectively
  • ✔️ Liquid format ideal for children who cannot swallow tablets
  • ✔️ Works within approximately 30 minutes of taking a dose
  • ✔️ Suitable for children aged 1 year and over and adults
  • ✔️ Contains clinically established chlorphenamine maleate 2mg per 5ml

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What Is Chlorphenamine Oral Solution for Children?

 

Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution is a liquid antihistamine medicine containing chlorphenamine maleate. It is used to relieve the symptoms of allergic conditions, including hay fever, skin rashes, hives (urticaria), insect bites and stings, and reactions to food or medicines. Because it comes as a liquid, it is particularly well suited to younger children who cannot swallow tablets. If you are looking for a reliable chlorphenamine oral solution for children, Allerief offers a straightforward, clinically established option available without a prescription. You can browse our wider range of allergy and hay fever treatments if you need additional support managing seasonal or year-round allergies.

Chlorphenamine maleate has been used in the UK for decades and is listed on the NHS as a first-generation antihistamine. It works quickly — typically within 30 minutes — making it useful when allergy symptoms flare up unexpectedly. At just £5.99, Allerief provides an accessible option for families managing allergic conditions at home.

 

How Does Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution Work?

 

Allerief works by blocking histamine H1 receptors in the body. When you come into contact with an allergen — pollen, pet dander, dust mites, or certain foods — your immune system releases histamine. Histamine then binds to receptors throughout the body, triggering the familiar symptoms of an allergic reaction. Chlorphenamine steps in and occupies those receptors before histamine can, reducing or preventing the reaction.

  • Allergen exposure triggers histamine release from mast cells
  • Histamine normally binds to H1 receptors, causing itching, sneezing, and swelling
  • Chlorphenamine maleate competitively blocks H1 receptors
  • Symptoms are reduced or prevented as a result
  • Being a first-generation antihistamine, it also crosses the blood-brain barrier, which is why drowsiness is a known side effect

 

Who Should Use Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

 

Allerief is suitable for a broad range of patients, from young children (aged 1 year and over, under medical supervision) through to adults. It is particularly useful for children who struggle with tablets or capsules, since the liquid format makes dosing easier and more accurate. That said, it is not exclusively a children's product — adults can use it too, especially when a liquid formulation is preferred.

It may be appropriate for you or your child if you experience:

  • Hay fever or seasonal allergic rhinitis
  • Urticaria (hives) or itchy skin rashes
  • Reactions to insect bites or stings
  • Food or drug allergy symptoms (mild to moderate)
  • Allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, watery eyes)

 

How Does Allerief Compare to Other Antihistamine Liquids?

 

Feature Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution Cetirizine Oral Solution (e.g. 1mg/ml)
Active ingredient Chlorphenamine maleate Cetirizine hydrochloride
Generation First-generation antihistamine Second-generation antihistamine
Drowsiness More likely to cause drowsiness Less likely to cause drowsiness
Suitable age (liquid) From 1 year (under supervision) From 2 years
Dosing frequency Every 4–6 hours (up to 6 doses/day) Once daily

 

Is Allerief Suitable for Long-Term Use and How Should It Be Stored?

 

Allerief is generally intended for short-term symptom relief rather than continuous long-term use. If you find yourself or your child needing antihistamine treatment regularly over several weeks, it is worth speaking to your GP to explore whether a second-generation antihistamine or other management strategy might be more appropriate. For parents managing multiple childhood health needs, our baby and toddler health range includes a variety of products to support your little one's wellbeing.

Store Allerief below 25°C, away from direct light and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach and sight of children. Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label. Once opened, check the patient information leaflet for any specific in-use storage guidance.

This product is a medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using if you have an underlying medical condition or are taking other medicines.

Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution specifications
Treatment category Antihistamine / Allergy relief
Active ingredient Chlorphenamine maleate 2mg per 5ml
Mechanism of action H1 histamine receptor antagonist
Drug class First-generation antihistamine
Preparation Oral solution (liquid)
Route of administration Oral
Suitable for Children aged 1 year and over (under supervision); children 2+ years; adults
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Strengths 2mg/5ml

Specifications of Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution

 

What Is Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution and What Is It Used For?

 

Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution contains chlorphenamine maleate, a first-generation antihistamine. It is used to relieve symptoms caused by allergic reactions, including sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy and watery eyes, itchy skin, hives (urticaria), and reactions to insect bites or stings. It can also help with mild allergic reactions to food or medicines. The NHS lists chlorphenamine as one of the antihistamines commonly used for allergy relief in both children and adults.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

 

Do not use Allerief if any of the following apply:

  • Your child is under 1 year of age
  • You are allergic to chlorphenamine maleate or any other ingredient in the solution
  • You are taking or have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) within the last 14 days
  • You have an acute asthma attack
  • You have narrow-angle glaucoma
  • You have urinary retention or an enlarged prostate

Speak to your pharmacist or GP before using Allerief if you have epilepsy, liver disease, cardiovascular disease, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. Chlorphenamine may pass into breast milk and could cause drowsiness in a nursing infant.

Known drug interactions — tell your pharmacist if you are taking:

  • Other sedatives, sleeping tablets, or tranquillisers (additive sedation)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (increased anticholinergic effects)
  • Alcohol (increases drowsiness significantly)
  • Other antihistamines (risk of excessive sedation)
  • Phenytoin (chlorphenamine may inhibit its metabolism)

 

How Should You Use Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

 

Always use Allerief exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. Use the measuring device provided — never estimate doses using a household spoon, as this can lead to inaccurate dosing. If you are unsure about the right dose for your child, ask your pharmacist before giving the medicine.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use if instructed on the label
  2. Measure the correct dose using the oral syringe or measuring spoon provided
  3. Give the dose by mouth, directly or mixed with a small amount of water if needed
  4. Record the time of each dose to avoid accidental double-dosing
  5. Do not exceed the maximum number of doses in 24 hours for the relevant age group
Age Group Dose Frequency Max doses per 24 hours
1–2 years (under medical supervision only) 1mg (2.5ml) Twice daily 2
2–5 years 1mg (2.5ml) Every 4–6 hours 3
6–12 years 2mg (5ml) Every 4–6 hours 6
12 years and over / Adults 4mg (10ml) Every 4–6 hours 6

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

 

Like all medicines, Allerief can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Because chlorphenamine is a first-generation antihistamine, it crosses the blood-brain barrier more readily than newer antihistamines, which is why drowsiness is one of the most frequently reported effects. If you are concerned about drowsiness in your child, you may wish to explore our full allergy range, which includes non-drowsy alternatives.

Common side effects:

  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Dizziness or impaired coordination
  • Headache
  • Nausea or stomach upset

Less common side effects:

  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty passing urine
  • Palpitations or rapid heartbeat
  • Paradoxical excitability (particularly in young children — restlessness, irritability, or insomnia)
  • Skin rashes or photosensitivity

Stop using Allerief and seek immediate medical attention if you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a severe skin reaction.

 

How Should You Store Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the medicine's effectiveness and safety. For families managing multiple health products at home, it is good practice to keep all medicines in a dedicated, secure location — especially if young children are present. You might also find it helpful to keep a note of expiry dates alongside other household health essentials such as those in our first aid range.

  • Store below 25°C
  • Keep away from direct light and moisture
  • Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink
  • Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Store out of the reach and sight of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the label or packaging
  • Do not dispose of medicines via wastewater or household waste — return unused medicine to your pharmacy

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

Your safety and success are our highest priorities. Our medical team rigorously evaluates every product and piece of advice we provide, ensuring you receive only the most effective, science-backed solutions available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution online in the UK?

You can buy Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution directly from Cured Pharmacy online without a prescription. It is classified as a Pharmacy (P) medicine, so it is available over the counter for eligible patients. Simply add it to your basket and complete a short health check at checkout.

How does Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution work in the body?

Allerief contains chlorphenamine maleate, which blocks H1 histamine receptors throughout the body. When an allergen triggers histamine release, chlorphenamine prevents histamine from binding to those receptors, reducing symptoms like itching, sneezing, and a runny nose. Because it is a first-generation antihistamine, it also acts on the central nervous system, which is why drowsiness is a common effect.

How do I use Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution step by step?

Measure the correct dose using the oral syringe or measuring spoon provided — never use a household teaspoon. Give the dose by mouth at the intervals specified for your child's age group, and keep a note of the time to avoid accidental double-dosing. Always read the patient information leaflet in full before use.

What is the correct dose of Allerief for a child aged 2 to 5 years?

Children aged 2 to 5 years should receive 1mg of chlorphenamine, which is equivalent to 2.5ml of Allerief oral solution. This dose can be given every 4 to 6 hours, up to a maximum of 3 times in 24 hours. Do not exceed the stated dose for this age group.

Can adults take Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

Yes, adults and young people aged 12 and over can take 10ml (4mg) of Allerief every 4 to 6 hours, up to a maximum of 6 doses in 24 hours. The liquid format is equally suitable for adults who prefer not to take tablets. Always follow the dosage instructions in the patient information leaflet.

What are the side effects of Allerief Oral Solution and how do I manage them?

The most common side effect is drowsiness, which can actually be useful if allergy symptoms are disrupting sleep. Dry mouth, dizziness, and nausea are also reported. If your child experiences paradoxical excitability — becoming unusually restless or irritable — stop the medicine and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

Is Allerief suitable for children under 1 year old?

No — Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution should not be given to children under 1 year of age. For children aged 1 to 2 years, it should only be used under direct medical supervision. If your infant has allergy symptoms, speak to your GP before giving any antihistamine medicine.

Can I give Allerief to my child at night to help with allergy symptoms?

Yes, because chlorphenamine can cause drowsiness, an evening dose is sometimes timed to coincide with bedtime when allergy symptoms are disrupting sleep. This is a recognised approach, but you should still stay within the maximum daily dose for your child's age. Speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure about timing doses.

What happens if I accidentally give my child too much Allerief?

If you think your child has taken too much Allerief, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include extreme drowsiness, rapid heartbeat, agitation, or seizures. Take the medicine packaging with you so healthcare professionals can see exactly what was taken.

What happens if I miss a dose of Allerief?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember — unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue as normal. Never give a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this increases the risk of side effects.

Who is eligible to use Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

Allerief is suitable for children aged 1 year and over (with medical supervision for those aged 1–2 years), older children, and adults. It is not suitable for people with certain conditions such as narrow-angle glaucoma, urinary retention, or those taking MAOIs. Always complete the health check at checkout to confirm suitability.

What are the alternatives to Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

Second-generation antihistamines such as cetirizine or loratadine oral solutions are common alternatives that cause less drowsiness. These may be preferable for daytime use or for children who need to remain alert at school. You can explore the full range of options in our allergy and hay fever collection.

How long can you use Allerief Oral Solution for?

Allerief is intended for short-term relief of allergy symptoms rather than continuous long-term use. If you or your child need antihistamine treatment regularly over several weeks, speak to your GP about whether a longer-term management plan is appropriate. Ongoing or worsening symptoms should always be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Can Allerief be taken alongside other allergy medicines?

You should not take Allerief alongside other antihistamines, as this increases the risk of excessive sedation and other side effects. It can be used alongside nasal corticosteroid sprays or eye drops for hay fever, but always check with your pharmacist first. For eye-related allergy symptoms, our eye care range includes suitable options.

What is the latest guidance on using chlorphenamine oral solution for children?

Current NHS and BNF guidance supports the use of chlorphenamine oral solution for children aged 1 year and over for short-term allergy relief, with dosing adjusted by age and weight. Second-generation antihistamines are often preferred for daytime use due to their lower sedation profile, but chlorphenamine remains a clinically appropriate choice, particularly where sedation at night is beneficial. Always follow current NHS guidance and consult your pharmacist or GP if you have any concerns.

How Should You Use Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

Always use Allerief exactly as described in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your pharmacist. It is important to use the measuring device supplied with the product — a household teaspoon is not accurate enough and could result in your child receiving too little or too much medicine.

Follow these steps each time you give a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

The dose of Allerief varies depending on age. Always use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time necessary to control symptoms. Do not exceed the maximum number of doses in any 24-hour period.

When Is the Best Time to Use Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

Allerief can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Because chlorphenamine commonly causes drowsiness, many parents choose to give a dose at bedtime when allergy symptoms are disrupting their child's sleep — this way the sedative effect works in their favour. For daytime doses, be aware that your child may feel sleepy and should not ride a bike or engage in activities requiring full alertness shortly after taking the medicine.

For hay fever sufferers, taking a dose before anticipated allergen exposure — such as before going outdoors during high pollen periods — may help prevent symptoms from developing in the first place.

How Long Can You Use Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution For?

Allerief is designed for short-term use to relieve acute allergy symptoms. It is not intended as a daily long-term treatment. If you find that you or your child need antihistamine medicine on most days over several weeks, this is a sign that the underlying allergy may need a more structured management plan — speak to your GP or pharmacist about your options.

If symptoms do not improve after a few days of treatment, or if they worsen at any point, stop using Allerief and seek medical advice. Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

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What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

The most frequently reported side effect of Allerief is drowsiness. This happens because chlorphenamine maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that crosses the blood-brain barrier, affecting the central nervous system as well as peripheral histamine receptors. While this can be inconvenient during the day, it is sometimes used to advantage when allergy symptoms are disrupting sleep at night.

  • Drowsiness or sedation
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Headache
  • Nausea or stomach discomfort

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

Some people experience side effects that are less frequent but still worth being aware of. In young children particularly, a paradoxical reaction can occasionally occur — rather than becoming drowsy, the child becomes unusually excitable, restless, or irritable. If this happens, stop the medicine and speak to your pharmacist or GP.

  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Palpitations or a faster-than-normal heartbeat
  • Paradoxical excitability in young children (restlessness, insomnia, irritability)
  • Skin rash or increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • Constipation

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution?

Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Stop using Allerief straight away and call 999 or go to A&E if you or your child experience any of the following:

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of a serious allergic reaction — anaphylaxis)
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Extreme confusion or loss of consciousness

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects of Allerief?

For mild side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth, these often improve as the body adjusts to the medicine. Encouraging your child to drink water can help with a dry mouth. If drowsiness is a concern during the day, speak to your pharmacist about whether a non-drowsy antihistamine alternative might be more suitable for daytime use.

You can report suspected side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk. This helps improve medicine safety information for everyone.

Can Allerief 2mg/5ml Oral Solution Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes. Chlorphenamine can interact with several other medicines, and some combinations can be dangerous. Always tell your pharmacist about everything you or your child are taking before starting Allerief. The most clinically significant interactions include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) — do not use Allerief within 14 days of stopping an MAOI. Combining Allerief with other sedatives, sleeping tablets, or alcohol significantly increases drowsiness. Tricyclic antidepressants taken alongside chlorphenamine can increase anticholinergic effects such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention. Chlorphenamine may also affect the metabolism of phenytoin, an anti-epileptic medicine.

If you are concerned about any side effects, contact your pharmacist or GP immediately.

Patient Information Leaflet

Important - Before taking any medication, it is always important to read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)

Written and reviewed by our qualified team

GPhC Number: 2233073
Tarun Kumar

Reviewed by:

Tarun Kumar

Superintendent/ Clinical Lead

📖 Find out more about our team of medical content authors and how we ensure the accuracy of our content with our content guidelines.

Content last updated: 31 Mar 2025

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