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.

POTASSIUM IODIDE/XANTHINE/DECONGESTANT/BARBITURATE - ORAL

Uses

Potassium iodide has been used as an expectorant which may help to loosen mucus. Xanthines widen air passages in the lungs to make breathing easier. Decongestants relieve nasal stuffiness. Barbiturates are added for their calming effect. This combination medication is used to relieve 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. This medication is best taken with a full glass of water (8 oz or 240 ml) after a meal or snack. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication.

Side Effects

Headache, stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, drowsiness or anxiety 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. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid pulse, palpitations, skin rash, high blood pressure, dizziness, flushing, tremors, nervousness, mental confusion. Notify your doctor if breathing difficulty continues or becomes worse. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness if this medication makes you drowsy. Avoid alcoholic beverages which can add to the drowsiness. 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 (e.g., asthma, emphysema), high blood pressure, thyroid disease, history of ulcers or seizures, glaucoma, drug dependency, any allergies. Smoking can reduce the effects of this medication. Inform your doctor if you smoke before taking this. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. 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 medicine, thyroid drugs, antidepressants, sedatives/tranquilizers, sleeping pills, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), narcotic pain medication (e.g., codeine). This drug may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. Discuss using other methods of birth control with your doctor. 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 drowsiness, lightheadedness, dizziness, muscle weakness, confusion, loss of coordination, nausea, nervousness/irritability, unusually slow or fast heartbeat, headache, tremors, hallucinations, unconsciousness, slow or shallow breathing, or seizures.

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.