What is Chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine?
Chlorpheniramine acts as an antihistamine. Dextromethorphan suppresses coughing. Phenylephrine works as a decongestant. Combination medicine that contains chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine treats allergies, flu, the common cold, and other symptoms such as sneezing and itching. Chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine do not treat coughs caused by asthma or emphysema, nor can they be used to treat those who smoke. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of chlorpheniramine.
Side effects of Chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine
When experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical advice: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling to lips, face, tongue or throat.
This medicine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Severe anxiety, tremor, seizure (convulsions);
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Urination that is painful or difficult
- Pale skin, weakness,
- A severe headache that pounds your neck and ears
Side effects that may occur from chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine include:
- Dizziness, drowsiness;
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth, nose, or throat
- Increased or decreased urination
- Nausea, diarrhoea, and loss of appetite
- Sleep problems (insomnia);
There may be other side effects. Call your physician if experiencing side effects; alternatively, reach out to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.
Warnings
If you've taken an MAO-inhibitor in the last 14 days (such as isocarboxazid or linezolid), phenelzine rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine, do not take this medication.
Before you take this drug
If you suffer from:
- Coughing up mucus with asthma or COPD;
- A blockage of your digestive tract, such as the stomach or intestines;
- High blood pressure, heart disease
- Liver or kidney disease
- Glaucoma;
- Urination or prostate problems;
- Overactive thyroid gland;
- Pheochromocytoma
If you've used MAO inhibitors in the last 14 days, avoid using chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan. It is possible that a dangerous drug interaction will occur. MAO inhibitors are isocarboxazid (linezolid), methylene blue injection, phenelzine, and other drugs. Consult your doctor before taking this medication if you're pregnant or nursing.
How to take Chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine?
Follow the directions on the label or those prescribed by your physician. Cold and cough medicines should only be taken temporarily until all symptoms have subsided. Follow the directions on the label when giving cough medicine or cold medicine. Avoid giving cough and cold medications to put children to sleep. Measuring liquid medicine is important. Use either the provided dosing device or another suitable dose-measuring instrument (not spoon). Mix the tablets with at least four ounces of warm water. Mix the mixture and drink it immediately. Pour a little water into the glass and swirl it gently. Drink immediately. Do not take more than 7 consecutive days. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience a headache, fever, or rash, then call your doctor. Tell your doctor or surgeon, if you've taken this medication within the last few days, if you are going to need medical testing or surgery. Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You may not have a schedule for your doses, as you only use the medication when it is needed. 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?
Alcohol consumption can have side effects when taken with this medication. Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how the medicine will affect you. You may be unable to react properly. Before using any other cold or cough medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist if they contain similar ingredients. Avoid overheating or dehydration during exercise and hot weather. This medication can cause you to sweat less and be more susceptible to heatstroke.
Interaction with other drug
Avoid taking this medication with drugs that slow breathing or cause drowsiness (such as muscle relaxers, opioids, and medicines for anxiety or seizures). Before taking any other medications, including vitamins, herbal products, prescription medicines, or over-the-counter medicines, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist. This medication guide does not list all possible interactions with other drugs.
