When we get a cold, fever, body aches, stuffy nose, cough, etc., we often buy medicine from a pharmacy and take it. There are many medicines on the market that claim to provide relief from many of these symptoms at once. Today we are going to talk about one such commonly used medicine, made by combining three ingredients.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, it is a combination of a pain reliever, a decongestant, and a nasal decongestant. It mainly contains three drugs : Acetaminophen , Guaifenesin , and Phenylephrine .
Imagine you have a bad cold, a stuffy nose, a fever, and a sore throat. This is when this type of medicine is used. But remember, this medicine only controls the symptoms. It will not cure an infection in the body.
Let's look at the three different things in this medicine.
| Drug Name | How it Works |
|---|---|
| Acetaminophen | This is similar to the paracetamol we all know. It reduces fever and body aches. |
| Guaifenesin | This helps loosen the mucus in the chest and make it easier to cough up. (Expectorant) |
| Phenylephrine | It constricts the blood vessels in the nose, reducing nasal congestion and swelling. (Decongestant) |
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although this medication is available over the counter, it can be dangerous to use if you have certain medical conditions. Therefore, it is wise to talk to your doctor before taking this medication. Be sure to mention any of these conditions, especially if you have them.
- Diabetes
- Glaucoma
- Heart Disease
- High Blood Pressure
- If you are a regular drinker
- Thyroid Disease
- Prostate Disease
- If you have taken an MAOI antidepressant (e.g. Carbex, Nardil) within the past 14 days
- If you have had an allergic reaction to acetaminophen, guaifenesin, phenylephrine, or other medicines, foods, or dyes.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- If you are a breastfeeding mother
These facts are very important because some of the ingredients in this medicine may interact with your existing medical conditions.
How exactly do you use this medicine?
Before using this medicine, read the instructions on the label carefully. Do not take more than the prescribed dose.
- Use the correct measure: Use the special lid or cup that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not measure with teaspoons or tablespoons that you have at home. Their measurements are not accurate.
- Take the medicine at the right time: Keep the proper interval between meals. Do not take it too frequently.
- If giving to children: Always consult a pediatrician before giving this type of medicine to children under 12 years of age. Some medicines are not suitable for children.
- If you are over 65: Older people may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Therefore, a lower dose may be needed. Talk to your doctor about this as well.
Attention: Overdose
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, even if you have no symptoms, go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Taking too much acetaminophen can cause serious liver damage.
What if I miss a dose of medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at once.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
If you are taking medication for another condition, you should be careful before taking this medicine. Some medications can cause serious reactions when taken together with this one.
| Absolutely DO NOT take with these! | |
|---|---|
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| Discuss with your doctor if you take these. | |
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This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about every medication, vitamin, or traditional medicine you take.
Things to consider when taking medication
- Drink plenty of water: Drink several glasses of water a day. This will help loosen mucus and help it come out.
- Pay attention to symptoms: If your pain or fever doesn't go away after taking medication for a few days, or if it seems to get worse, see a doctor.
Pay special attention to liver damage!
If you drink 3 or more glasses of alcohol a day while taking this medicine, the risk of liver damage is very high. Also, be careful not to take other medicines that contain acetaminophen (paracetamol). Read the medicine label carefully. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medication, this one can have side effects. Some are serious, some are common.
| If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| |
| These are usually not serious, but if they persist, tell your doctor. | |
|
Take-Home Message
- Although this medicine helps control the symptoms of a cold, such as fever, body aches, mucus, and nasal congestion, it does not cure the infection.
- Read the label carefully before taking medication and take only the prescribed dose. Do not measure with household spoons.
- If you have other medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease, be sure to ask your doctor before taking this medicine.
- Do not take any other medicine containing acetaminophen (paracetamol) while taking this medicine. Avoid drinking alcohol.
- Seek immediate medical attention if serious side effects occur (chest pain, severe allergic reactions, yellowing of the eyes).
- Always store medicines safely, out of the reach of children.
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