What is Desgen DM (Phenylephrine)?
Dextromethorphan suppresses coughing by affecting brain signals that cause the cough reflex. Guaifenesin loosens up congestion in the chest and throat. Phenylephrine works to constrict blood vessels within nasal passages. Desgen DM is a combination medication used to treat allergies, flu, common colds, or coughs caused by allergies. Desgen DM will not cure a cough caused by asthma or emphysema, nor can it treat a smoking-induced cough. This medicine is available in many different brands and types. This leaflet does not list all available brands. Desgen DM and phenylephrine can be used in other ways not mentioned in the medication guide.
Side effects of Desgen DM (Phenylephrine)
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergy reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or any kind of swelling on lips, face throat or tongue - seek medical attention immediately!
The side effects of this medicine can be serious. If you experience:
- Little or no urine;
- Fast or slow heartbeats
- Confusion, dizziness, feeling unsteady;
- Nervousness; sleep problems (insomnia);
- Severe nausea or vomiting;
- A severe headache can cause blurred vision or pounding of the neck and ears.
- Slow breathing
- Unusual changes in behavior or mood
Some of the most common side effects associated with Desgen DM and phenylephrine include:
- Diarrhea, constipation;
- Dizziness, drowsiness;
- Sleep problems (insomnia);
- Feeling nervous, restless, or irritable.
There may be other side effects.Call your physician if experiencing side effects; for reporting purposes call the FDA directly at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
This medicine should not be used if in the last 14 days you took an MAO-inhibitor, including isocarboxazid (linezolid), phenelzine (phenelzine), rasagiline (selegiline), or tranylcypromine.
Before you take this drug
This medicine should not be used if you have an allergy to dextromethorphan or any of the other ingredients. You should not take this medication if you've taken an MAO inhibitor in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction may occur. The MAO inhibitors are isocarboxazid (linezolid), phenelzine (rasagiline), selegiline (tranylcypromine), and rasagiline.
If you suffer from:
- Hypertension or heart disease?
- Diabetes;
- A thyroid condition;
- Urination issues;
- Glaucoma;
- Epilepsy and other seizure disorders
- Pheochromocytoma
- Chronic bronchitis or emphysema may produce an exudative cough with thick mucus production.
The medicine you are taking may contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria, check the label of your medication. Consult your doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding before taking this medication.
How to take Desgen DM (Phenylephrine)?
Follow the directions on the package or those prescribed by your physician. Use cold or cough medicines only as needed until symptoms have cleared up. Follow the directions provided on the label when giving cough medicine or cold medicine to children. Never use cough and cold medicine to put a young child to sleep. Do not chew or crush a tablet. It is best to swallow it whole. Measuring liquid medication is important. Dosing devices are available. While taking this medicine, drink extra fluids in order to loosen congestion and lubricate the throat. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience a headache, fever, or rash, call your doctor. Tell your doctor or surgeon if this medication was taken within the last few days and if you are going to need medical testing or surgery. Keep away from heat and moisture.Liquid medications should never be left exposed to freezing.
What happens if I miss the dose?
As your cough and cold medicine may only be taken when necessary, do not take an extra dose at one sitting if one becomes overdue - simply skip over it when time for the next dose to come around instead of double dosing all at once! Never double dose directly following another one taken close together.
What happens if I overdose?
Contact poison control immediately or seek immediate medical care by dialling the helpline number: 1-800-222-1222.
What should be avoided?
Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how the medicine affects you. You may be unable to react properly. Certain side effects can be exacerbated by alcohol consumption. Before using any other cold or cough medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist if they contain the same ingredients.
Interaction with other drug
Use Desgen DM with caution if you are taking other medications that can cause drowsiness, such as muscle relaxers, opioid medicines, and medicine to treat anxiety or seizures. Before using other medications, such as vitamins and herb products, ask your doctor or pharmacist. This medication guide does not list all possible interactions with other drugs.
