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Dexchlorphen-Pse-ChlophedianolUsesThis combination medication is used to relieve symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, allergies, "hay fever," and other breathing illnesses (such as sinusitis, bronchitis). These symptoms include cough, watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing. This product contains a cough suppressant (such as chlophedianol) that affects a certain part of the brain, reducing the urge to cough. This product also contains a decongestant (such as pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine), which helps relieve stuffy nose symptoms. It also contains an antihistamine (such as brompheniramine, triprolidine, among others), which helps relieve watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing. This medication is not usually used for ongoing coughs from smoking, asthma, or other long-term breathing problems (such as emphysema), or for coughs with a lot of mucus, unless directed by your doctor. Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely. These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray). How to Use This MedicationTake this medication by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take this product with food or milk. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. The fluid will help loosen the mucus in your lungs. The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Long-acting products are usually taken twice a day. Some products may be taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Follow your doctor's directions carefully. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed without your doctor's approval. If you are taking this medication for allergy or hay fever, take it regularly to get the most benefit from it. If you are using the liquid form, use a medication-measuring device or spoon to carefully measure the prescribed dose. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If your liquid form is a suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose. If you are using the chewable form, chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts for more than 1 week, if it gets worse, or if it occurs with a headache that doesn't go away, fever, or rash. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a doctor. |