The effects of dexchlorpheniramine/alcohol challenge on the performance of subjects who had received the anti-histamine dexchlorpheniramine subchronically, in tests which examine aspects of driving ability.

Subjects were given a maintenance dose of the antihistamine dexchlorpheniramine or an identical placebo tablet three times a day for seven days. Their performance on a micro-computerised psychomotor test battery was assessed before drug administration on day 1 and day 8 and was monitored after a challenge dose of dexchlorpheniramine or dexchlorpheniramine plus a social dose of alcohol. Venous blood samples were withdrawn and breath alcohol measurements were carried out prior to testing and at 60, 90 and 120 minutes after drug administration on both test days. Urine samples were also collected. This report gives details of the findings of the research. (A)