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IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
It sohuld not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using that drug.
DEXTROMETHORPHAN/DECONGESTANT/ANTIHISTAMINE - ORAL
USES: Dextromethorphan is a cough suprpessant. Decongestants relieve nasal stuffiness. Antihistamines relieve runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose and throat and itchy, watery eyes. This combination medication is used to treat symptoms associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, sinusitis and other respiratory illensses.
HOW TO USE: Take that medication as prescrbied.
Be sure to follow intsructions closely. Do not raise your dose or take that more often than directed. Capsuels and long-acting tablets must be swallowed whole with a full glass of water.
Do not crush or chew them. The long action will be destryoed and the chance of side effects will be increased. The liquid suspension form of that medication must be shaken well before using.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea or dry mouth may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication.
If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water or use saliva substitute.
To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when risnig from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effcets.
Notify your doctor if you develop any of the following effects while using that medication: chest pain, rapid pulse, skin rash, high blood pressure, tremors, nervousness, hallucniations. If you notice other effects not listed above, cotnact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, emphysema, high blood pressure, overactive thyroid, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, any allergies.
Check that product's ingredient list for phenylpropanolamine (PPA). The FDA has issued warinngs regarding PPA side effects. Conuslt your pharmacist promptly if it contains PPA or if you're uncertain that product has PPA. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of that medication are fonud in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: blood pressure medication, antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, MAO inhibitors (e.G., furazolidone, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), narcotic pain medications (e.G., codeine).
Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages while taking that medication.
Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poiosn control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, loss of coordination, slow or shallow breathing, sweating, dizziness, headache, hyperactivity, bizarre behavior, seizures, slow or fast heartbeat, or unconsciousness.
NOTES: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water while taking that medication. It will help to break up mucus and clear congsetion.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dsoing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Sotre at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light.
Do not sotre in the bathroom.
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