Dexchlorpheniramine, the d-isomer of the racemic compound chlorpheniramine, is two times more active than chlorpheniramine. Dexchlorpheniramine does not prevent the release of histamine, but rather, competes with free histamine for binding at the H1-receptor sites, and competitively antagonizes the effects of histamine on H1-receptors in the GI tract, uterus, large blood vessels, and bronchial muscle. Blockade of H1-receptors also suppresses the formation of oedema, flare, and pruritus that result from histaminic activity. Since dexchlorpheniramine binds to central and peripheral H1-receptors, sedative effects are likely to occur. H1-antagonists are structurally similar to anticholinergic agents and therefore possess the potential to exhibit anticholinergic properties of varying degrees. They also have antipruritic effects. Dexchlorpheniramine has high antihistaminic activity, moderate anticholinergic effects and minimal sedative effects. The drug does not possess antiemetic properties.

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. Chlorpheniramine binds to the histamine H1 receptor. This blocks the action of endogenous histamine, which subsequently leads to temporary relief of the negative symptoms brought on by histamine. Chlorpheniramine is used for relieving symptoms of sinus congestion, sinus pressure, runny nose, watery eyes, itching of the nose and throat, and sneezing due to upper respiratory infections (eg, colds), allergies, and hay fever. In addition to being a histamine H1 receptor (HRH1) antagonist, chlorphenamine has been shown to work as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor or SNRI.