When we get a cold, we all feel very uncomfortable when we have a lifeless fever and cough, right? So at this time, many people buy a medicine from a pharmacy that treats all three of these symptoms. These come in the form of a single liquid and control several of our symptoms at once, so it seems very convenient. But there are a few things we need to be very careful about when using such medicines. Today we are talking about that.
Simply put, what is this medicine?
Although these may look like one medicine, they are actually a combination of three medicines. Each of them does a different job.
1. Acetaminophen: This is the paracetamol we all know. Its main function is to reduce fever and relieve body aches .
2. Chlorpheniramine: This belongs to the antihistamine class. It is used to control allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes that come with a cold.
3. Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant. It is especially helpful in controlling dry, persistent coughs .
The important thing is that this medicine only controls the symptoms of the cold. It does not cure the viral infection in your body. That is something that our body's immune system has to cure itself.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before taking this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions, as this medicine is not suitable for everyone.
| Illness or condition | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Liver disease or kidney disease | Because the medication is eliminated from the body through these organs, they can be damaged. |
| If you drink alcohol regularly | The combination of alcohol and paracetamol can cause serious liver damage. |
| Respiratory diseases (such as asthma, COPD) | Some medications can increase breathing difficulties. |
| Glaucoma condition | Antihistamines may increase eye pressure. |
| Prostate problems | Difficulty urinating may increase. |
| If you are taking MAOI medications | These are medications used to treat mental illness. Taking these two medications together can cause very serious reactions. |
| If you are pregnant or breastfeeding | Do not take medication without medical advice as it may affect the baby. |
How should I use this medicine?
- Correct measurement: Always use the special measuring cup, spoon, or dropper that comes with the medicine. Do not measure with household teaspoons, as they are not accurate.
- Dosage: Do not take more than the recommended amount on the label or as directed by your doctor.
- Children and adults: Always seek medical advice if giving this medicine to children under 12 years of age. Also, people over 65 may need a lower dose because their bodies may react more quickly to this medicine.
- Short-term use: Remember, this is not a daily medication. It is a medication that should be used only when symptoms are present .
What if you drink more than you intended? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine by mistake, do not ignore it. Even if you do not have any symptoms, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Liver damage from taking too much paracetamol may not be apparent for the first few hours.
Things to keep in mind when taking medication
Special warning about paracetamol!
This is the most important thing. This medicine contains acetaminophen (paracetamol) . Therefore, do not take separate paracetamol tablets (such as Panadol, Piriton) while taking this medicine for any reason. Doing so can cause a paracetamol overdose, which can be very serious and even life-threatening to the liver. Other cough and cold medicines you buy from the pharmacy may also contain paracetamol. Therefore, always read the label carefully. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
Drowsiness and dizziness
The chlorpheniramine in this medicine can make you very sleepy . Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery while taking this medicine. Be careful, especially if you are elderly, as you may feel dizzy or fall when you get up or sit up quickly. Drinking alcohol can make this sleepiness worse.
Skin reactions
Very rarely, serious skin reactions may occur within a few weeks or months of starting this medicine. If you develop a fever or a feverish feeling, red or purple blisters on your skin, or red spots on your face or lips with swelling, see a doctor immediately.
What are the possible side effects?
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Serious symptoms that require immediate medical attention | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing. |
| Symptoms of liver damage | Dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin, pain in the upper right side of the stomach, loss of appetite. |
| Severe skin reactions | Skin redness, blistering, peeling. |
| Difficulty urinating | No urination or urination with great difficulty. |
| Common symptoms that you should tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| Drowsiness/dizziness | It is a common condition that occurs in many people. |
| Dry mouth | You can get relief by chewing sugar-free gum or drinking water. |
| Insomnia | Some people may experience insomnia instead of sleepiness. |
Take-Home Message
- This medicine only temporarily controls the symptoms of a cold, but does not cure the infection.
- Most importantly: Never take separate paracetamol (Acetaminophen) tablets while taking this medicine. This can cause serious liver damage.
- If you have other medical conditions or are taking other medications, be sure to tell your doctor before taking this medicine.
- Avoid driving and performing tasks that require alertness, as drowsiness may occur after taking this medication.
- If you take too much medicine by mistake, go to the nearest ETU (Emergency Treatment Unit) immediately, even if you are not experiencing symptoms.
- If symptoms do not improve or worsen after taking the medicine for about 7 days, seek medical advice.
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