Skip to product information
1 of 1

  • Images are for illustration purposes only

Piriton Syrup – 150ml

Piriton Syrup – 150ml

  • 1. Ozempic®️-equivalent therapy now available for weight management
  • 2. Average weight loss of 17%, with 1 in 3 patients achieving over 20%
  • 3. May help reduce osteoarthritis-related pain
  • 4. Wegovy®️ is not expected to impact the effectiveness of oral contraceptives
  • 5. Supports cardiovascular risk reduction
  • 6. Over 22 million patients treated with semaglutide-based therapies since 2018

  • ✔️ Relieves hay fever, hives, and insect bite symptoms
  • ✔️ Suitable for children from 1 year of age
  • ✔️ Liquid format ideal for children who cannot swallow tablets
  • ✔️ Works within 30–60 minutes of taking a dose
  • ✔️ Contains chlorphenamine maleate, a clinically proven antihistamine

Price Checker

Regular price £5.99
Sale price £5.99
Sale Sold out
  • Lowest price guarantee
  • Includes FREE private prescription
View full details

 

Is Piriton Syrup for Children the Right Allergy Relief?

 

Allergies can make life genuinely miserable — for children and adults alike. Whether it's a streaming nose during hay fever season, an itchy rash after an insect bite, or hives that appear out of nowhere, finding something that actually works matters. Piriton syrup for children has been a trusted household name in the UK for decades, and for good reason. It contains chlorphenamine maleate 2mg/5ml, a well-established first-generation antihistamine that tackles a wide range of allergic symptoms quickly. You can find it alongside other trusted options in our allergy and hay fever collection.

This 150ml bottle is suitable for adults and children from 1 year of age, making it one of the few antihistamine liquids that covers such a broad age range. At £5.99, it's an accessible option to keep in the medicine cabinet — especially heading into spring and summer when pollen counts rise.

 

How Does Piriton Syrup Work to Relieve Allergy Symptoms?

 

When your body encounters an allergen — pollen, pet dander, a bee sting — it releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine binds to receptors throughout the body and triggers the familiar cascade of symptoms: sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and skin reactions. Piriton Syrup interrupts that process.

  • Chlorphenamine maleate binds competitively to H1 histamine receptors.
  • By blocking these receptors, it prevents histamine from exerting its effect on tissues.
  • This reduces inflammation, itching, and mucus production associated with allergic reactions.
  • Because chlorphenamine crosses the blood-brain barrier, it also has a mild sedating effect — which can be useful but requires caution around driving or operating machinery.

The syrup formulation means it's absorbed relatively quickly via the gastrointestinal tract, with effects typically felt within 30 minutes to an hour of taking a dose.

 

Who Is Piriton Syrup Suitable For?

 

Piriton Syrup is suitable for a wide range of people, but it's particularly well-suited to those who need a liquid formulation — young children who can't swallow tablets, or adults who prefer a liquid dose. It's commonly used for:

  • Children aged 1 year and over with hay fever, hives, or allergic skin reactions
  • Adults managing seasonal allergic rhinitis or urticaria
  • Anyone experiencing itching from insect bites or stings
  • People with food allergies causing mild skin symptoms (not anaphylaxis)

It is not suitable for children under 1 year of age. Always check with a pharmacist or GP if you're unsure whether it's appropriate for your child's specific situation.

 

How Does Piriton Syrup Compare to Other Antihistamine Syrups?

 

Feature Piriton Syrup (Chlorphenamine) Cetirizine Syrup (e.g. Zirtek)
Generation First-generation Second-generation
Sedating? Yes — commonly causes drowsiness Less sedating
Minimum age 1 year 2 years (for syrup)
Duration of action 4–6 hours Up to 24 hours

 

How Should You Store Piriton Syrup and Is It Safe Long-Term?

 

Store Piriton Syrup below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, and always keep it out of reach of children. Once opened, check the expiry date on the bottle and do not use it beyond that date. If you're travelling abroad and need to pack allergy relief, it's worth browsing our travel health collection for other essentials to take with you.

Piriton syrup for children should not be used continuously for extended periods without medical advice. If symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen, speak to your GP. Short-term use for acute allergic reactions is generally well tolerated, but long-term daily use in children warrants a clinical review.

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.

Piriton Syrup 150ml specifications
Treatment category Allergy & Hay Fever
Mechanism of action H1 histamine receptor antagonist
Effective for Hay fever, urticaria, insect bites, allergic rhinitis, food allergy skin reactions
Suitable for Adults and children aged 1 year and over
Active ingredient Chlorphenamine maleate 2mg/5ml
Pack size 150ml
Strength 2mg/5ml
UK classification P (Pharmacy medicine)
Drug class First-generation antihistamine
Preparation Oral syrup
Route of administration Oral

Specifications of Piriton Syrup 150ml

 

What Is Piriton Syrup and What Is It Used For?

 

Piriton Syrup is an oral antihistamine medicine containing chlorphenamine maleate 2mg per 5ml. It belongs to a class of medicines called first-generation antihistamines, which work by blocking the action of histamine in the body. It is licensed for use in adults and children from 1 year of age.

It is used to relieve symptoms caused by allergic conditions, including hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis), perennial allergic rhinitis, urticaria (hives), reactions to insect bites and stings, food allergies causing skin symptoms, and other allergic skin conditions such as eczema flares triggered by allergens. It is not a treatment for anaphylaxis — if you or your child experiences a severe allergic reaction, call 999 immediately.

 

What Do You Need to Know Before Using Piriton Syrup?

 

Before giving Piriton Syrup to yourself or your child, read the following carefully. There are situations where this medicine should not be used, and others where extra caution is needed.

Do not use Piriton Syrup if:

  • The child is under 1 year of age
  • You are allergic to chlorphenamine maleate or any other ingredient in the syrup
  • You are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them within the last 14 days
  • You have acute asthma or a lower respiratory tract condition (chlorphenamine can thicken secretions)

Use with caution and speak to a pharmacist or GP first if:

  • You have epilepsy, glaucoma, or an enlarged prostate
  • You have liver or kidney problems
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • You have cardiovascular disease or hyperthyroidism

Known drug interactions — avoid combining with:

  • Alcohol — increases sedative effect significantly
  • Other CNS depressants (sedatives, sleeping tablets, anxiolytics)
  • MAOIs — risk of serious adverse reactions
  • Tricyclic antidepressants — enhanced anticholinergic effects
  • Other antihistamines — additive sedation and anticholinergic effects

 

How Should You Use Piriton Syrup Correctly?

 

Always use the measuring device provided or a calibrated oral syringe — never a household teaspoon, as this can lead to inaccurate dosing. Take doses at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and do not exceed the maximum daily dose for the relevant age group.

  1. Shake the bottle gently before use.
  2. Measure the correct dose using the measuring cup or oral syringe.
  3. Give the dose by mouth, with or without food.
  4. Space doses at least 4–6 hours apart.
  5. Do not give more than the maximum number of doses in 24 hours.
Age Group Dose Frequency Max Daily Dose
1–2 years 1mg (2.5ml) Twice daily (medical supervision) 2mg
2–5 years 1mg (2.5ml) Up to 4 times daily 4mg
6–12 years 2mg (5ml) Up to 4 times daily 8mg
Adults & 12+ years 4mg (10ml) Up to 4 times daily 24mg

If you're managing allergy symptoms alongside other conditions, it may be worth exploring our ear, nose and throat collection for complementary products that support nasal and sinus health.

 

What Are the Possible Side Effects of Piriton Syrup?

 

Like all medicines, Piriton Syrup can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. The most notable is drowsiness, which is a direct result of chlorphenamine crossing the blood-brain barrier. This can actually be useful in some situations — for example, when a child is distressed by itching at night — but it does mean you should never give it before activities requiring alertness.

Common side effects:

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

Less common side effects:

  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty passing urine (urinary retention)
  • Palpitations
  • Paradoxical excitability in children (restlessness, irritability — more common in young children)
  • Skin rashes or photosensitivity

If your child becomes unusually excitable or agitated after taking Piriton Syrup, stop use and speak to a pharmacist or GP. Paradoxical stimulation is a recognised reaction in young children with first-generation antihistamines.

 

How Should You Store Piriton Syrup?

 

Correct storage helps maintain the medicine's effectiveness and safety throughout its shelf life. If you're building a family first aid kit, our baby and toddler collection has a range of products suitable for young children alongside Piriton Syrup.

  • Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources
  • Do not refrigerate unless stated on the label
  • Always keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children
  • Do not use after the expiry date printed on the bottle
  • 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 Piriton Syrup online in the UK?

You can buy Piriton Syrup 150ml directly from Cured Pharmacy, a GPhC-registered online pharmacy. It's available without a prescription as a Pharmacy (P) medicine. Simply add it to your basket and it will be dispatched to your door — no GP visit needed for standard allergy relief.

How does Piriton Syrup work in the body?

Piriton Syrup contains chlorphenamine maleate, which blocks H1 histamine receptors throughout the body. When allergens trigger histamine release, chlorphenamine prevents histamine from binding to those receptors, reducing symptoms like itching, sneezing, and a runny nose. Because it also crosses the blood-brain barrier, it has a sedating effect that distinguishes it from newer, non-drowsy antihistamines.

What age can children take Piriton Syrup?

Piriton Syrup is suitable for children from 1 year of age. Children aged 1 to 2 years should only receive it under medical supervision. It must not be given to babies under 1 year old. Always follow the age-appropriate dosing instructions on the packaging and consult a pharmacist if you're unsure.

What is the correct dose of Piriton Syrup for children?

The dose depends on the child's age. Children aged 2–5 years take 2.5ml (1mg) up to four times daily; children aged 6–12 years take 5ml (2mg) up to four times daily. Always use a calibrated measuring device rather than a household spoon to ensure accuracy.

Can adults take Piriton Syrup?

Yes, adults and young people aged 12 and over can take 10ml (4mg) of Piriton Syrup up to four times daily. The maximum adult dose is 24mg in any 24-hour period. If you find the syrup format inconvenient, Piriton also comes in tablet form — speak to your pharmacist about which suits you best.

Does Piriton Syrup cause drowsiness in children?

Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of Piriton Syrup because chlorphenamine is a sedating, first-generation antihistamine. This can sometimes be helpful if a child is struggling to sleep due to itching, but you should never give it before school, sports, or any activity requiring concentration. Some children may paradoxically become excitable rather than sleepy — if this happens, stop use and speak to a pharmacist.

What conditions does Piriton Syrup treat?

Piriton Syrup is used to relieve symptoms of hay fever, allergic rhinitis, urticaria (hives), insect bites and stings, food allergy skin reactions, and other allergic skin conditions. It is not a treatment for anaphylaxis — a severe allergic reaction requires emergency medical attention. For a broader range of allergy products, visit our allergy and hay fever collection.

How quickly does Piriton Syrup start working?

Piriton Syrup is generally absorbed within 30 minutes to an hour of taking a dose, with peak effects typically occurring within 1–2 hours. The duration of action is approximately 4–6 hours, which is why doses may need to be repeated throughout the day. Taking it with food may slightly delay absorption but can help reduce stomach upset.

Can I give Piriton Syrup to my child for hay fever every day?

Piriton syrup for children can be used during hay fever season to manage daily symptoms, but it's not intended for indefinite continuous use without medical review. If your child needs antihistamines every day throughout the year, speak to your GP about longer-term allergy management options. Short-term daily use during high pollen periods is generally acceptable when used as directed.

What happens if I give my child too much Piriton Syrup?

Overdose with chlorphenamine can cause excessive sedation, dry mouth, flushing, rapid heartbeat, and in severe cases, convulsions — particularly in young children. If you think your child has taken too much, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. Always keep medicines stored safely out of children's reach.

Can Piriton Syrup be taken with other medicines?

Piriton Syrup can interact with several medicines, including MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants, other sedatives, and other antihistamines. Combining it with alcohol also significantly increases drowsiness. Always tell your pharmacist about any other medicines your child or you are taking before starting Piriton Syrup.

Is Piriton Syrup safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Piriton Syrup is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice. Chlorphenamine may pass into breast milk and could cause drowsiness in a nursing infant. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding and need allergy relief, speak to your GP or midwife before taking any antihistamine.

How does Piriton Syrup compare to non-drowsy antihistamines?

Piriton Syrup is a first-generation sedating antihistamine, while options like cetirizine or loratadine are second-generation and far less likely to cause drowsiness. Non-drowsy antihistamines also tend to last longer — up to 24 hours — compared to Piriton's 4–6 hour window. The choice depends on your situation; if nighttime itching is the main problem, Piriton's sedating effect can actually be an advantage.

Can I use Piriton Syrup for insect bites when travelling?

Yes, Piriton Syrup is a useful addition to a travel first aid kit for managing allergic reactions to insect bites and stings. It helps relieve itching, swelling, and redness associated with minor reactions. Browse our travel health collection for other essentials to pack alongside it.

What are the latest findings on chlorphenamine use in children?

Current NHS and MHRA guidance continues to support the use of chlorphenamine in children from 1 year of age for short-term allergy relief when used at the correct dose. Clinicians increasingly favour second-generation antihistamines for long-term daily use due to the lower sedation profile, but chlorphenamine remains a clinically appropriate choice for acute allergic reactions. Always follow current product labelling and seek pharmacist advice for ongoing use.

How Should You Use Piriton Syrup?

Always read the label before giving Piriton Syrup to yourself or your child. Use the measuring cup or oral syringe provided — never a household teaspoon, as this can result in inaccurate dosing. The syrup can be taken with or without food, though taking it with a small amount of food or milk may help reduce the chance of stomach upset.

Follow these steps each time you administer a dose:

What Is the Correct Dose of Piriton Syrup?

The dose varies depending on age. Never exceed the maximum daily dose for the relevant age group, and always space doses at least 4–6 hours apart. For children aged 1 to 2 years, use only under medical supervision.

When Is the Best Time to Use Piriton Syrup?

Because Piriton Syrup causes drowsiness, timing your doses thoughtfully makes a real difference. For daytime allergy symptoms, take the first dose in the morning with breakfast, but be aware that it may affect concentration, driving, or school performance. Many parents find that giving a dose at bedtime works well when a child is struggling to sleep due to itching — the sedating effect can actually help them rest more comfortably.

If you're using it for hay fever, taking a dose before anticipated exposure to pollen — such as before going outdoors on a high pollen day — may help manage symptoms more proactively. Avoid giving it immediately before any activity requiring alertness.

How Long Can You Use Piriton Syrup For?

Piriton Syrup is intended for short-term use to manage acute allergic symptoms. It is not designed for continuous, long-term daily use without medical review. If symptoms persist beyond a few days, or if you find yourself needing it every day for weeks at a time, speak to your GP or pharmacist about longer-term allergy management strategies.

For seasonal hay fever, using it during the pollen season is generally acceptable when taken as directed. However, if your child requires antihistamines year-round, a clinical review is advisable to explore whether a non-sedating alternative or additional treatment might be more appropriate.

Do not exceed the recommended dose. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist.

Customer Reviews

Be the first to write a review
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)

What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Piriton Syrup?

The most frequently reported side effect of Piriton Syrup is drowsiness. This happens because chlorphenamine maleate crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts on the central nervous system as well as peripheral histamine receptors. It's worth planning doses around this — avoid giving it before school, driving, or any activity requiring concentration.

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

What Are the Less Common Side Effects of Piriton Syrup?

Some people experience side effects that are less frequent but still worth knowing about. These tend to be related to the anticholinergic properties of chlorphenamine — effects that occur when the medicine blocks acetylcholine receptors in addition to histamine receptors.

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

Paradoxical excitability is particularly worth watching for in young children. Rather than becoming sleepy, some children become unusually restless or agitated after taking Piriton Syrup. If you notice this, stop the medicine and speak to a pharmacist or GP.

What Are the Serious Side Effects of Piriton Syrup?

Serious side effects are rare when Piriton Syrup is used at the correct dose, but they can occur — particularly in cases of overdose or in people with certain underlying conditions. Seek immediate medical attention if you or your child experiences any of the following after taking Piriton Syrup.

  • Convulsions or seizures
  • Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing
  • Extreme confusion or disorientation
  • Very rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Loss of consciousness

If you suspect an overdose, contact NHS 111 or go to your nearest A&E immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen.

What Should You Do If You Experience Side Effects?

For mild side effects such as drowsiness or dry mouth, these often improve as your body adjusts to the medicine. Staying well hydrated can help with dry mouth. If drowsiness is problematic during the day, speak to your pharmacist about whether a non-sedating antihistamine might be more suitable for your needs.

If you experience any side effect that concerns you, or if a side effect persists or worsens, stop taking the medicine and seek advice from your pharmacist or GP. You can also report side effects directly to the MHRA via the Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.

Can Piriton Syrup Interact With Other Medicines?

Yes — Piriton Syrup has several clinically significant interactions. The most important is with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): combining these medicines can cause a serious and potentially dangerous reaction. You must not take Piriton Syrup if you are currently taking MAOIs or have taken them within the last 14 days.

Other interactions to be aware of include alcohol (significantly increases sedation), tricyclic antidepressants (enhanced anticholinergic effects), other CNS depressants such as sleeping tablets or anxiolytics, and other antihistamines. Always tell your pharmacist about every medicine, supplement, or herbal remedy you or your child is taking before starting Piriton Syrup.

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

We’re a safe and
regulated UK service

Registered Pharmacy Badge

Lowest Price Guarantee

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

100% discreet packaging

We're convinced you won't find your treatment cheaper, but if you do we'll refund the difference.

Find out more

Agent

Need help?
Talk to our friendly experts now

How our service works

Service Setup

Service setup

Discreet Packaging

Discreet packaging

Express Delivery

Express delivery