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.

DEXTROMETHORPHAN/DECONGESTANT/ANTIHISTAMINE - ORAL

Uses

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. Decongestants relieve nasal stuffiness. Antihistamines relieve runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose and throat and itchy, watery eyes. This combination medication is used to treat symptoms associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, sinusitis and other respiratory illnesses.

How To Use

Take this medication as prescribed. Be sure to follow instructions closely. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Capsules and long-acting tablets must be swallowed whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew them. The long action will be destroyed and the chance of side effects will be increased. The liquid suspension form of this medication must be shaken well before using.

Side Effects

Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea or dry mouth may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. Notify your doctor if you develop any of the following effects while using this medication: chest pain, rapid pulse, skin rash, high blood pressure, tremors, nervousness, hallucinations. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, emphysema, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, any allergies. Check this product's ingredient list for phenylpropanolamine (PPA). The FDA has issued warnings regarding PPA side effects. Consult your pharmacist promptly if it contains PPA or if you are uncertain this product has PPA. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: blood pressure medication, antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), narcotic pain medications (e.g., codeine). Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages while taking this medication. 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, loss of coordination, slow or shallow breathing, sweating, dizziness, headache, hyperactivity, bizarre behavior, seizures, slow or fast heartbeat, or unconsciousness.

Notes

Drink plenty of fluids, especially water while taking this medication. It will help to break up mucus and clear congestion.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.