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Cheratussin AC

Generic name: codeine and guaifenesin [KOE-deen-and-gwye-FEN-a-sin]
Brand names: Cheracol, Mar-cof CG (with codeine), Allfen CD (with codeine), Cheratussin AC (with codeine), Codar GF… Show all 11 brands.
Combinations for the upper respiratory tract

What is Cheratussin AC?

Codeine suppresses coughing. It interferes with the brain signals that cause the cough reflex.Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant. It loosens congestion in the chest and throat, making it easier for you to cough through your mouth.Cheratussin AC, a combination medication, is used to treat allergies, flu, and coughs caused by the common virus.Cheratussin AC does not treat coughs caused by smoking or emphysema.Cheratussin AC can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Cheratussin AC

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to lips, face or throat - seek medical assistance immediately!Codeine, like other narcotics, can cause breathing problems. If breathing becomes weak, death may result.If you have blue lips or slow breathing with long pauses in between, someone caring for you needs to seek immediate medical attention.

This medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Sighing and noisy breathing are both examples of shallow breathing.
  • A low heart rate or a weak pulse
  • Severe dizziness or drowsiness;
  • Confusion, hallucinations, or unusual thoughts and behaviours;
  • Little or no urinating is acceptable.
  • Constipation is severe.
  • Slow heart rate and shallow or weak breathing.

The risk of serious side effects is higher in older adults, especially those who are obese or malnourished.

Cheratussin AC can cause the following side effects:

  • Constipation is a common symptom.
  • Mild drowsiness.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice regarding side effects, call your physician directly or the FDA can be reached at 1-800-FDA-1088. If possible, report adverse events directly.

Similar/related drugs

Benzonatate, benadryl, diphenhydramine, guaifenesin, diextromethorphan, and mucinex

Warnings

Codeine may cause breathing problems and can become habit-forming. Mistaken use of Cheratussin A can cause addiction or death. This is especially true for children or anyone who uses the medication without a prescription.Do not give this medication to anyone under 18.

Before you take this drug

This medicine should not be taken if you have an allergy to codeine or guaifenesin.Some people have a rapid breakdown of codeine in their liver, resulting in higher levels than normal in the blood. This can lead to dangerously slow breathing and even death in children.Do not give to anyone younger than 18 years old.

Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Cheratussin AC will be safe for you:

  • A cough that produces mucus
  • COPD, or asthma
  • Blockage in the digestive system;
  • A head injury or brain tumour;
  • Low blood pressure
  • Addiction to alcohol or drugs

Your baby may develop withdrawal symptoms after birth if you use codeine during pregnancy. A baby's addiction to habit-forming drugs may require medical care for several weeks. Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.Do not breastfeed. Codine can pass through breast milk, causing drowsiness or breathing problems in nursing babies. Do not breastfeed.

How to take Cheratussin AC?

Please read all the instructions on the prescription label. Codeine can cause breathing problems. Cheratussin AC should never be used in higher doses or for a longer period of time than prescribed. Cold and cough medication should generally only be taken for as little as one to four days until symptoms have subsided.Even at low doses, codeine can become habit-forming. Cheratussin is not to be shared with anyone, especially with someone who has a history of drug use or addiction. Misuse of narcotic medication can result in addiction, overdose or death for users without valid prescription. Children or others using it without supervision could find themselves vulnerable.Use either the provided dosing syringe, dose-measuring cup, or spoon to accurately dose liquid medicines. If none are available to you, ask your pharmacist.If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days, or you experience a headache and a skin rash or fever, call your doctor.

Store at room temperature away from moisture or heat for optimal conditions. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Track the amount of medication used in each new bottle. Codeine is an addictive drug. You should be alert to anyone who uses your medicine without a prescription or improperly.

What happens if I miss the dose?

You may not have a schedule for Cheratussin AC, as it is only used when necessary. If you have a regular schedule, take the missed dose as quickly as you can. If the next scheduled medication is close, skip any missed ones and wait to take your scheduled dosage instead. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Get help immediately: Call the Poison Help Line on 1800222-1222, or seek emergency medical attention immediately. An overdose of codeine can be deadly, especially if it is taken by a child or someone who has not been prescribed the medication.

What should be avoided?

Cheratussin AC can affect your ability to think or react. Do not drive or operate machinery until you are sure how this medication will affect you. Dizziness and severe drowsiness may cause accidents or falls.Don't drink alcohol. Side effects and death can occur.Before using any other cold or cough medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Guaifensin is found in many combination medicines. You can get too much guaifensin by taking certain products in combination.

Interaction with other drug

Do not take Cheratussin AC if you are taking other drugs to make you sleepy, slow your breathing, or cause anxiety.Codeine and guaifenesin may interact with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.