Let's learn exactly about the nighttime medications (Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Doxylamine) for colds and coughs.

Imagine you have a bad cold... You have a runny nose , you sneeze constantly, you have a fever and body aches, and you can't sleep at night because of the cough. At times like these, most of us reach for a 'combination' syrup from the pharmacy that is good for colds, coughs, and fevers, right? These medicines are very popular because they are easy to use and provide relief from many symptoms with one pill. But there are a few things we need to be very careful about when using these. Today we are going to talk about that.

What is this medicine? What does it actually do?

This is not really one drug, but a combination of three drugs. That's why it's called a 'combination' drug. Let's see what it is.

1. Acetaminophen: This is the painkiller and fever reducer found in Panadol that we all know. It helps control your body aches, headaches, and fever.

2. Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant. It works by affecting the cough center in the brain, reducing the frequency of coughing. It is especially effective for dry coughs that do not produce mucus.

3. Doxylamine: This is an antihistamine. It controls things like runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes. It also causes drowsiness . That's why these medications are called 'nighttime' or 'drinking at night' medications. Taking this will help you sleep better.

Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is important for your doctor to know these things before deciding whether this medicine is right for you. If you have any of the following conditions, you should definitely seek medical advice before taking this medicine.

• If you have lung diseases like asthma or bronchitis .
• If you have a persistent cough that doesn't go away.
• If you have a cough that produces a lot of mucus .
• If you have glaucoma, a condition in which the pressure in the eyes is high.
• If you are a regular drinker of alcohol (this can be very harmful to the liver).
• If you have liver disease .
• If you have difficulty urinating (e.g. enlarged prostate).
• If you have taken a medication called an MAOI (e.g. Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate) for depression within the past 14 days .
• If you have had an allergic reaction to these medications (Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Doxylamine) or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant .
• If you are a mother who is breastfeeding .

How to use the medicine? And what to be careful about

Correct dosage and use

This medicine should be used exactly as directed on the bottle. Never measure the medicine with household teaspoons or tablespoons. They are not accurate. Use only the measuring cup or special spoon that comes with the medicine. Take the correct dose at the correct time. Do not take more or more often than directed.

What to do if the dose increases (overdose)?

If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Even if you do not show symptoms, it is essential to seek medical advice. As excessive intake of Acetaminophen can cause serious liver damage.

Can there be problems with other medications?

Yes, definitely. This medicine can interact with some other medications.

• MAOI-type medications: Taking this medication with these is very dangerous.
• Alcohol: Taking this medication with alcohol can increase the risk of excessive drowsiness and liver damage.
• Other cold, cough, or allergy medications: These may also contain ingredients in this medicine. This may increase the dose.
• Other medicines containing Acetaminophen (Paracetamol): This is the most important thing. When taking this syrup, do not take separate Panadol tablets, painkillers, or other medicines containing paracetamol. Doing so will increase the amount of Acetaminophen in the body and may damage the liver. Always read the label of the medicine carefully.

Tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins and herbal products).

Possible side effects when taking the medicine

Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some are minor, but others need to be taken care of immediately.

When should you see a doctor?

• If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days or if they get worse.
• If the fever lasts more than 3 days or if the fever increases.
• If your sore throat lasts more than 2 days and is accompanied by fever, skin rash, headache, nausea, or vomiting.

Cold, Cough, Fever, Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Doxylamine, Syrup, Side Effects