What is M-Clear?
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. M-Clear, a combination of medicines, is used to treat allergies, flu, and coughs caused by the common virus. M-Clear does not treat coughs caused by smoking or emphysema. This medication guide does not list all possible uses of M-Clear.
Side effects of M-Clear
Symptoms of allergic reaction that require immediate medical intervention: difficulty breathing, hives or swelling on lips, face, tongue or throat. 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 behaviors;
- 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.
M-Clear's side effects may include:
- Constipation;
- Mild drowsiness.
There may be other side effects. Need advice regarding potential side effects? Speak with your physician.The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Similar/related drugs
benzonatate, benadryl, diphenhydramine, guaifenesin, diextromethorphan, and mucinex
Warnings
Codeine may cause breathing problems and can become habit-forming. M-Clear misuse can lead to addiction, overdose, or death, especially if the medication is taken by a child or someone who does not have a prescription. This medicine is not for anyone under 18 years old.
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 M-Clear will be safe for you:
- A cough that produces mucus
- COPD, or asthma?
- Blockage of the digestive tract (intestines or stomach);
- A head injury or brain tumor;
- 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 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 M-Clear?
Please read all the instructions on the prescription label. Codeine can cause breathing problems. M-Clear should never be used in higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed. Cold or cough medicine is typically taken for only a few days until symptoms disappear. Even at low doses, codeine can become habit-forming. M-Clear should never be shared with anyone, especially if they have a history of drug addiction. Misuse of narcotic medication can cause addiction, overdose, or death, especially for children or others who use the medicine without a prescription. Use the provided dosing syringe or a dose-measuring cup or spoon to measure liquid medicines.Consult your pharmacist if you don't possess an accurate device for measuring doses. If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days, or you experience a headache and a skin rash or fever, call your doctor. Store away from moisture or heat at room temperature. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat sources.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?
M-Clear can be used as needed, and you don't need to follow a schedule. If you have a regular schedule, take the missed dose immediately after you remember. If your next scheduled dosage is approaching, skip the missed dose. You should not take extra medicine to compensate for a missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Reach the Poison Help Line immediately on 1-800-222-1222 if poison is suspected, or seek emergency medical attention as quickly as possible. 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?
M-Clear can affect your ability to think or react. Do not drive or operate machinery until you are sure how the medicine will affect your body. Dizziness and extreme fatigue may result in accidents or falls, leading to missteps or accidents. 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
M-Clear can have dangerous side effects if taken with drugs that cause sleepiness or slow breathing. 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.