Actifed Original Formula

Actifed^® Cold & Allergy is a non-prescription medication used to treat the symptoms of allergies and the common cold. It contains two different medications: chlorpheniramine maleate (an antihistamine) and phenylephrine hydrochloride (a decongestant).

The version of Actifed currently available in the United States is different from the original Actifed formula, which contained triprolidine, instead of chlorpheniramine, and pseudoephedrine, instead of phenylephrine. This change was made in response to new regulations that required pseudoephedrine to be sold behind the pharmacy counter. Some people who were accustomed to the original formula feel that the new, reformulated version is not as effective.

While the brand-name version of the original Actifed formula is no longer sold in the United States, generic versions are still available. Just look for products containing 2.5 mg of triprolidine hydrochloride and 60 mg of pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. Your pharmacist can help you find a generic version of Actifed.

(Click Actifed for a more in-depth look at the difference between the original Actifed formula and the one sold in stores today. This article also describes how Actifed works, lists potential side effects, and explains what to tell your healthcare provider before using this medication.)