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Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan

Generic name: chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan [klor-feh-NEER-a-meen-and-DEX-troe-meh-THOR-fan]
Brand names: Children’s nyquil Cold and Cough, Coricidin HBP Cough and Cold, Cough and Cold, Robitussin Paediatric Cough and Cold Long-Acting, Scot-Tussin Sugar Free DM,… Show all 22 brands
Forms of dosage: oral liquid (1 mg–5 mg/5 ml),  oral syrup (2 mg–15 ml/5 ml),…show all 4 dosage forms
Drug Class: Upper Respiratory Combinations

What is Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan?

Chlorpheniramine acts as an antihistamine. Dextromethorphan suppresses coughs. Combination medicine that treats sneezing and runny nasal passages caused by the cold. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of chlorpheniramine or dextromethorphan.

Side effects of Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to face lips throat If you experience severe sleepiness, stop using chlorpheniramine or dextromethorphan immediately and contact your doctor. In older adults, side effects like dryness of the mouth and constipation may be more common.

Side effects of dextromethorphan and chlorpheniramine include:

  • Dizziness, drowsiness;
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Constipation;
  • Blurred vision
  • Feeling restless or excited, especially in children.

There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; for reporting concerns call the FDA directly on 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

If you've taken an MAO-inhibitor in the last 14 days (such as isocarboxazid or linezolid), or if your symptoms are worsened by MAO-inhibitors, do not take this medication. Never use cold or cough medicine to put a child to sleep.

Before you take this drug

If you've used MAO inhibitors in the last 14 days, do not take dextromethorphan and chlorpheniramine together. Drug interactions can occur. MAO inhibitors are isocarboxazid (linezolid), phenelzine (phenelzine injection), rasagiline (selegiline), methylene blue injection, tranylcypromine, and others. This medicine should not be used if you have an allergy to dextromethorphan or chlorpheniramine.

If you suffer from:

  • Glaucoma;
  • An enlarged prostrate
  • Urination problems can be caused by a number of factors.
  • A cough that is mucus-filled, or a cough due to smoking, asthma, emphysema, or chronic lung disease

Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or nursing. This medication may contain phenylalanine. If you suffer from Phenylketonuria, read and understand your medication label carefully.

How to take Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan?

Follow the instructions on the label or those prescribed by your physician. Cold or cough medicine should only be used for a short time until symptoms have cleared up. Follow the directions on the label when giving cough medicine or cold medicine. Never use cough and cold medicine to put children to sleep. Measuring liquid medicine is important. Use the provided dosing device or a dose-measuring tool (not a spoon) to measure liquid medicine. The chewable tablet must be chewed before it can be swallowed. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience a headache, fever, rash, or other symptoms, call your doctor. Tell your doctor or surgeon if you're currently taking this medication and if you need medical testing or surgery. Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Details on dosage

The usual paediatric dose for nasal congestion and cough:

Chlorpheniramine-dextromethorphan 1 mg–5 mg oral tablet, chewable:
Every 4 to 6 hours, take 2 tablets, chewed, dissolved, or swallowed; not more than 6 doses per day.
Chlorpheniramine-dextromethorphan 1 mg-5 mg/5 ml oral liquid:
6–12 years: 10 ml every 4–6 hours, not more than 6 doses per day.
Chlorpheniramine-dextromethorphan 1 mg–7.5 mg/5 ml oral liquid:
Do not exceed four doses per day for children aged 6–12 years.

What happens if I miss the dose?

You may not have a schedule for your cough and cold medication, as you only use it when necessary. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip any missed dose. Never take two doses in one go.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.

What should be avoided?

Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have a better understanding of how dextromethorphan and chlorpheniramine will affect you. You could have impaired reactions. Do not drink alcohol when taking this medication. Before using any other cold or cough medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist if they contain similar ingredients.

Interaction with other drug

Avoid taking this medication with drugs that slow breathing or cause drowsiness (such as muscle relaxers, opioid medicines, or medications for anxiety or seizures). Before taking any other medications, such as prescription or over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, or herbal products, consult your doctor or pharmacist. This medication guide does not list all possible drug interactions.

 

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