Chlorpheniramine maleate is most commonly used as which type of medication?

Chlorpheniramine maleate is primarily classified as an antihistamine. Antihistamines are designed to block the action of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms such as sneezing, itching, runny nose, and watery eyes. Chlorpheniramine is often used to relieve symptoms of allergic conditions, such as hay fever, and is effective in alleviating symptoms associated with upper respiratory tract allergies.

The mechanism of chlorpheniramine involves its ability to compete with histamine for binding to histamine receptors in various tissues, which helps to reduce the effects of allergic reactions. This is why it is a standard choice for treating allergies and is often found in over-the-counter allergy medications.

While other options represent different categories of medications used for various conditions—such as cough suppressants for reducing cough reflex, fever reducers for lowering body temperature, and analgesics for pain relief—chlorpheniramine maleate specifically addresses allergic reactions and symptoms, affirming its classification as an antihistamine.