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.

HYDROCODONE - POTASSIUM GUAIACOLSULFONATE - ORAL

(poh-TASS-ee-um GWEYE-uh-koll-SULL-fun-ate W/hi-droh-KOH-doan)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): M-Clear, Prolex DH

Uses

This combination of cough suppressant and expectorant is used to treat cough due to colds or flu. Also, phlegm (lung secretions) may become less thick after using this medication along with fluids.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water generally 4 times daily as needed, or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, this product may be taken with food. Drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this medication can be habit-forming. Also, if used for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop using this medicine without your doctor's approval. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well. Notify your doctor if your condition does not improve in 7 days or if you develop a high fever or persistent headache.

Side Effects

Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, nausea, vomiting or constipation may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Unlikely but report promptly: unusually fast heartbeat, decreased amount of urine. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other side effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially to codeine), lung disease (e.g., asthma, emphysema), recent head injury. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Caution is advised when using this medication in the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to drug side effects. Children may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Use cautiously. This product should not be given to children under 3 years of age. This combination of medications should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this combination of medications passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this product is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: cimetidine, naltrexone. 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, 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 slowed breathing, drowsiness, deep sleep or loss of consciousness, cold and clammy skin, dry mouth, and slow pulse.

Notes

Do not share this product with others. This medication has been prescribed for your current condition only. Do not use it later for another condition, unless told to do so by your doctor.

Missed Dose

When instructed to use this on a regular schedule (not "as needed"): 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 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.