Chlorpheniramine/pseudoephedrine (By mouth)

Introduction:

Chlorpheniramine (klor-fen-IR-a-meen), Pseudoephedrine (soo-doe-e-FED-rin)

Treats sneezing, runny nose, stuffy nose, watery eyes, and other symptoms of hay fever, common cold, or other allergies.

Brand Name(s):

Sudal-12, QDALL, Allerest Maximum Strength, Chlor-Pheniton, Genaphed Plus, SudoGest Cold & Allergy, Maxichlor PSE, Triaminic Softchew Allergy Runny Nose & Congestion, Triaminic Softchews Allergy Runny Nose & Congestion, PSE CPM, Kronofed-A, Colfed-A, Novafed A, Pseudocot-C, Deconamine SR

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to chlorpheniramine, or pseudoephedrine. You should not use this medicine if you are using MAO inhibitors such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate® within the last 14 days. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet, Capsule, Chewable Tablet, Long Acting Capsule, 24 Hour Capsule, Long Acting Tablet, Liquid

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • This medicine comes with patient instructions. Read and follow these instructions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

If a dose is missed:

  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.
  • Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have diabetes, glaucoma, heart disease, high blood pressure, problems with urination due to enlarged prostate gland, or thyroid disease.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have breathing problems such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Tell your doctor if you have prolonged cough caused by smoking, or due to breathing problems.
  • This medicine may make you dizzy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
  • Do not give this medicine to a child under 6 years old unless your doctor says it is okay.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
  • Drowsiness or nervousness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Fussiness in your child.
  • Trouble sleeping.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com