Introduction:

Avil is a first-generation H1 antihistamine widely used in humans and veterinary clinics for emergency condition to treat allergic reactions. This article is full of guide with uses, dosing, risks and the nursing or veterinary care that goes. 

What Is Avil?

Avil is the brand name for pheniramine maleate, a first-generation H1 antihistamine. It works by blocking histamine at H1 receptors, which reduces the itching, swelling and rash that histamine causes during an allergic response. The injectable form is given either intramuscularly (IM) or intravenously (IV), and it is commonly seen in veterinary, emergency clinics use, often alongside an injectable steroid such as dexamethasone. It comes as a 2ml, 5ml and 50 ml (max) vial. 

Drug Profile

Uses Of Avil Injection: 

Avil injection is used for:

• Allergic reactions such as urticaria, itching and rash
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Angioedema
• Cough Supressant 
• Metabolic Stimulant
• Stops artikeria
• Drug and food allergies
• Supportive treatment in snack’s bite. 
• Reduces Nasal secretions in pneumonia.
• Pre Medication before anesthesia and antibiotics to reduce antibiotic reactions
• Reduces Histamines in endotoxemia (Metritis diseases etc)

• As an adjunct in anaphylaxis, alongside emergency treatment. It is not a substitute for adrenaline.

Dosage of Avil Injection: 

Adults

• IM: 25 mg (1 ml) by deep intramuscular injection as a stat dose, then 12.5 mg (0.5 ml) every 6 to 8 hours if needed.
• IV: 25 mg (1 ml) by slow IV injection over 2 to 3 minutes.

Children (IM / IV)

• 0.1 mg/kg body weight (for example, 1 ml for a 10 kg child), every 6 to 8 hours if needed.

Important: do not exceed 3 doses in 24 hours.

Variations of Avil:

1. Avil Injection
2. Avil Tablets
3. Avil Oral Suspension

Important Note: 

Dosing here is as given in the source infographic. Always confirm against the product label and the prescriber’s order before administering.

Side Effects

Most side effects are dose-related and temporary. They include:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Urinary retention
• Hypotension, especially with rapid IV use
• Weight loss by prolonged use

Contraindications

Avil should not be given, or must be used with great caution, in:

• Hypersensitivity to pheniramine maleate or any component
• Narrow-angle glaucoma
• Prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention
• Obstructive peptic ulcer
• Asthma (use with caution)
• Newborns and premature infants

Nursing Responsibilities

1. Verify the patient’s identity and check their drug allergy history.
2. Assess vital signs before administration.
3. For IM: give a deep injection in the upper outer quadrant of the gluteus.
4. For IV: dilute as prescribed and administer slowly over 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Monitor for adverse effects: drowsiness, hypotension, dry mouth and urinary retention.
6. Advise the patient to avoid driving or operating machinery.
7. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.
8. Report severe reactions such as breathing difficulty, swelling or hypotension immediately.

Instructions:

• The instructions for Avil Injection are as under
• Use as directed by a pharmacist or veterinary doctor.
• Store in a cool, dry place and avoid freezing.
• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Do not use the product if particles or haziness are observed.
• Store below 30°C.
• Dosing should be confirmed from a pharmacist or a qualified veterinarian.

Memory Trick

The infographic offers a mnemonic: A-V-I-L stands for Allergy, Very Itching, Less (but sleepy). It captures what the drug does, relieving allergy and itching, and its best-known side effect, sleepiness.

Key Takeaways

• Avil works fast intravenously (2 to 5 minutes) and lasts 4 to 6 hours.
• It supports, but never replaces, adrenaline in anaphylaxis.
• Give IV doses slowly to avoid hypotension.
• Counsel patients about drowsiness and avoiding alcohol, driving and machinery.
• Check contraindications first, especially glaucoma, prostatic enlargement and use in newborns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Avil saved in Pregnancy?

Avil (pheniramine maleate) is not considered as a pregnancy safe drug and should only be used if explicitly prescribed by your doctor or veterinarian. 

Avil injection iv or im dose?

Avil injection IV dose is 25 mg (1 ml) by slow IV injection over 2 to 3 minutes. While IM dose is 25 mg (1 ml) by deep intramuscular injection as a stat dose, then 12.5 mg (0.5 ml) every 6 to 8 hours if needed.

Avil injection dose?

Avil injection IV dose is 25 mg (1 ml) by slow IV injection over 2 to 3 minutes. While IM dose is 25 mg (1 ml) by deep intramuscular injection as a stat dose, then 12.5 mg (0.5 ml) every 6 to 8 hours if needed.

What is the dose of avil injection in children?

The dose of avil injection in children is 0.1 mg/kg body weight (for example, 1 ml for a 10 kg child), every 6 to 8 hours if needed. 

Is Avil injection safe in pregnancy?

Avil (pheniramine maleate) is not considered as a pregnancy safe drug and should only be used if explicitly prescribed by your doctor or veterinarian. 

Avil Injection price in Pakistan?

Avil Injection price in pakistan is 93 Pkr for 50ml Vial