This drug is a combination of two antihistamines, pyrilamine and chlorpheniramine, and a decongestant, phenylephrine. Triotann-S is used to treat symptoms associated with the common cold and hay fever, such as runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing.
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.
 May be Beneficial: Depletion or interference—The medication may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the nutrient. Taking these nutrients may help replenish them. | Polygonum multiflorum* |
| May be Beneficial: Supportive interaction—Taking these supplements may support or otherwise help your medication work better. | Panax ginseng* |
 Avoid: Adverse interaction—Avoid these supplements when taking this medication because taking them together may cause undesirable or dangerous results. | Henbane* |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Interactions with Herbs
Korean or Chinese ginseng (Panax ginseng)
Laboratory studies have shown that compounds found in Panax ginseng enhance the ability of phenylephrine to constrict blood vessels.1 Controlled studies are necessary to determine whether taking Panax ginseng at the same time as phenylephrine will enhance the beneficial effects of the drug.
Polygonum multiflorum*
Many drugs used in the treatment of high blood pressure cause relaxation or dilation of blood vessels. Laboratory studies show that emodin, a compound in Polygonum multiflorum, also relaxes blood vessels. However, animal studies reveal that phenylephrine blocks the action of emodin.2 Controlled studies are needed to determine whether Polygonum multiflorum helps people with high blood pressure and whether phenylephrine blocks its beneficial effects.
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
Antihistamines, including chlorpheniramine, can cause “anticholinergic” side effects such as dryness of mouth and heart palpitations. Henbane also has anticholinergic activity and side effects. Therefore, use of henbane with chlorpheniramine could increase the risk of anticholinergic side effects,3 though apparently no interactions have yet been reported. Henbane should not be taken except by prescription from a physician trained in its use, as it is extremely toxic.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Alcohol
Drinking alcoholic beverages together with antihistamines can enhance side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness.4 Consequently, people who are taking pyrilamine and chlorpheniramine should avoid alcohol, especially when staying alert is necessary.
References
1. Kwan CY. Vascular effects of selected antiphypertensive drugs derived from traditional medicinal herbs. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 1995;22 Suppl 1:S297–9.
2. Huang HC, Lee CR, Chao PD, et al. Vasorelaxant effect of emodin, an anthraquinone from a Chinese herb. Eur J Pharmacol 1991;205:289–94.
3. Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council, 1998, 146.
4. Olin BR, ed. Respiratory Drugs, Antihistamines. In Facts and Comparisons Drug Information. St. Louis, MO: Facts and Comparisons, 1993, 964–79.
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2006-09-07
