Carbinoxamine is a histamine-H1 receptor blocking agent. It is an antihistamine with anticholinergic (drying) and sedative properties. Carbinoxamine appears to compete with histamine (type H1) for receptor sites on effector cells in the gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels and respiratory tract. Carbinoxamine is effective for the symptomatic treatment of seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis; vasomotor rhinitis; allergic conjunctivitis due to inhalant allergens and foods; mild, uncomplicated allergic skin manifestations of urticaria and angioedema; dermatographism; as therapy for anaphylactic reactions adjunctive to epinephrine and other standard measures after the acute manifestations have been controlled. Most common adverse reactions are: sedation, sleepiness, dizziness, disturbed coordination, epigastric distress, and thickening of bronchial secretions. Avoid concomitant use of alcohol and CNS depressants (hypnotics sedatives, tranquilizers, etc.) due to additive adverse effects.

Doxylamine is an antihistamine commonly used as a sleep aid. This drug is also used to relieve symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis), hives (rash or itching), and other allergic reactions. Doxylamine is a member of the ethanolamine class of antihistamines and has anti-allergy power far superior to virtually every other antihistamine on the market, with the exception of diphenhydramine (Benadryl). It is also the most powerful over-the-counter sedative available in the United States, and more sedating than many prescription hypnotics. In a study, it was found to be superior to even the barbiturate, phenobarbital for use as a sedative. Doxylamine is also a potent anticholinergic. Like other antihistamines, doxylamine acts by competitively inhibiting histamine at H1 receptors. It also has substantial sedative and anticholinergic effects. Used alone as a short-term sleep aid, in combination with other drugs as a night-time cold and allergy relief drug. Also used in combination with Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) to prevent morning sickness in pregnant women.

Rotoxamine ((S)-carbinoxamine) is maleic acid salt of the levorotatory isomer of Carbinoxamine (a first-generation antihistamine of the ethanolamine class). Ethanolamine antihistamines have significant antimuscarinic activity and produce marked sedation in most patients. In addition to the usual allergic symptoms, the drug also treats an irritant cough and nausea, vomiting, and vertigo associated with motion sickness. It also is used commonly to treat drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms as well as to treat mild cases of Parkinson's disease. Rotoxamine is used to treat runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, hives, skin rash, itching, and other symptoms of allergies and the common cold.