Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

CARBETAPENTANE/CHLORPHENIRAMINE/PHENYLEPHRINE SUSPENSION

(KAR-bet-uh-PEN-tayn/klor-fen-IR-uh-meen/fen-ill-EFF-rin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Albatussin LA, Pentuss, Ricotuss

Uses

This medication is a cough suppressant/antihistamine/ decongestant combination used for the relief of cough due to the common cold, asthma, or bronchitis.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth usually twice daily as needed, or as directed by your doctor. Shake this liquid well before each dose. Unless otherwise directed, drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication. The fluid will help loosen phlegm/mucus in your breathing passages.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, and dryness of the nose and mouth may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of these unlikely but serious side effects: difficulty urinating, mental/mood changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including: high blood pressure, heart problems, thyroid disease, diabetes, glaucoma (narrow angle), prostate conditions, allergies (especially to tartrazine dye, or aspirin). This medication may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this medication in the elderly, since they may be more sensitive to medication side effects. This medication should not be used in newborns. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication may pass into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you use, especially of: MAO inhibitors used currently or stopped within the last 2 weeks (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine). Also report the use of drugs that cause drowsiness such as: sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti-anxiety drugs, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines, anti-seizure drugs, muscle relaxants, other antihistamines that cause drowsiness (e.g., diphenhydramine). Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and- cold products) because they may contain drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, blurred vision, deep sleep, slowed breathing, irregular heartbeat, hot or cold skin, numbness or tingling in arms or legs, shaking, and seizures.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 to 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.