What is Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin?
Dextromethorphan suppresses coughing. Guaifenesin acts as an expectorant. Combination medicine Dextromethorphan-Guaifenesin treats coughs and chest congestion caused by the cold or allergies. Dextromethorphan does not work to treat coughs caused by cigarette smoking. This leaflet does not list all brands or forms available. This medication guide does not list all possible uses for dextromethorphan or guaifenesin.
Side effects of Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin
If you experience symptoms of allergy such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling on lips, face, throat, tongue or mouth; seek medical help immediately.
Dextromethorphan may have serious side effects. If you experience:
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Mood changes
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Severe headache
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Feeling dizzy or anxious, as if you could pass out.
Side effects that may occur from dextromethorphan or guaifenesin include:
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Dizziness, drowsiness;
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Sleep problems (insomnia);
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Diarrhea;
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Feeling nervous, restless, or anxious
There may be additional side effects. If experiencing symptoms, seek medical advice immediately or report adverse events by calling 1-800-FDA-1088 directly.
Warnings
If you've taken an MAO inhibitor in the last 14 days (such as isocarboxazid or linezolid), this medication should not be used.
Before you take this drug
If you've taken MAO inhibitors in the last 14 days, do not take dextromethorphan or guaifenesin. This could lead to a dangerous drug interaction. The MAO inhibitors are isocarboxazid (linezolid), methylene blue injection, rasagiline, and selegiline.
If you suffer from:
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A cough that produces mucus
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Chronic bronchitis or asthma.
Consult your doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding before taking this medication. The medicine you are taking may contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria, check the label of your medication.
How to take Dextromethorphan or guaifenesin?
Adhere to the instructions listed on your package or as recommended 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. Measuring liquid medication is important. Dosing devices are available, but not spoons. It may be necessary to shake the liquid prior to measuring a dosage.Please read and follow all instructions printed on your packaging carefully. Do not chew or crush the Extended-Release Tablet.Sprinkle the granules directly on your tongue, and swallow immediately. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids while taking this medication in order to loosen congestion and soothe throat irritation.If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or you experience a headache, fever, or rash, call your doctor. Tell the surgeon if you've taken the medicine in the last few days. Reducing heat and moisture at room temperature.
What happens if I miss the dose?
You may not have a schedule for dextromethorphan or guaifenesin, as they are used only when necessary. If it is almost time to take your next dose, skip any missed doses. 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?
Dextromethorphan or guaifenesin can affect your reactions. Avoid dangerous activities until you are familiar with how they will impact you. You could have impaired reactions. Drinking alcohol while taking this medication may increase its side effects and even result in harmful interactions. Before using any other cold or cough medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist if they contain the same ingredients.
Interaction with other drug
Use this medication with caution if you are taking other medications that can cause sleepiness, slow breathing, or cause nausea (such as an opioid, muscle relaxer, or medicine to treat anxiety, seizures, or a muscle relaxing medicine). Before using this medication, ask your doctor if you also use any other medications, such as prescription or over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Some medicines used together may produce harmful or undesirable side-effects.This medication guide does not list all interactions.
