Triotann-S Pediatric®

Alternative Medicine The following information is specific for alternative and complementary medicine. For additional evidence-based information on diseases, conditions, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and wellness issues, continue searching the Healthwise Knowledgebase.

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.

Herbs

Summary of Interactions for Triotann-S Pediatric

Depletion or interference	Polygonum multiflorum *
Adverse interaction	Henbane*
Side effect reduction/prevention	None known
Supportive interaction	Panax ginseng*
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.

Other Interactions

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.

---

Last Review: 01-21-2009

Copyright © 2009 Aisle7  All rights reserved.  www.Aisle7.net

Please read the disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article.

Learn more about Aisle7.

Learn more about the authors of Using Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs

The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.

	Go to top of page
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.