Do you often get colds? Or do you start sneezing and have a runny nose because of something like dust or animal hair? At times like these, it feels like our lives have come to a standstill. So, one of the medicines that doctors often give us to control these annoying symptoms is this combination of Brompheniramine and Pseudoephedrine. Let's talk about this simply today.
Simply put, what is this medicine?
This is actually a combination of two medications. Imagine someone who has two jobs in one tablet or capsule.
1. Brompheniramine: This is an antihistamine . Simply put, histamine is a chemical produced in our bodies during allergies that is responsible for sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. This medicine works by blocking the action of histamine.
2. Pseudoephedrine: This is a type of decongestant . Your nose is blocked because the small blood vessels inside your nose are swollen. This medicine works by causing those blood vessels to contract a little, opening up your blocked nose and making it easier for you to breathe.
The most important thing: This medicine only controls your symptoms. That means it does not cure a bacterial or viral infection. It's like holding up an umbrella when it's raining. It can't stop the rain from falling, but it can help you stay dry.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine:
This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, before your doctor prescribes this medicine, you should definitely tell him if you have any of the following medical conditions.
| Illness or condition | Why should you be concerned? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Sometimes it can affect blood sugar levels. |
| High blood pressure or heart disease | Pseudoephedrine can increase blood pressure and heart rate. |
| Glaucoma condition | There is a possibility of increasing eye pressure. |
| Thyroid problems (Thyroid disease) | Symptoms may worsen. |
| Difficulty urinating (e.g., enlarged prostate) | This problem can be further exacerbated. |
| Respiratory diseases such as asthma | In some cases, symptoms may worsen due to thickening of mucus. |
| Taking MAOI medication (within the past 14 days) | (Very important) These are medications for depression. Taking them with this medication can cause dangerously high blood pressure. |
| Being pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding | You should talk to your doctor about the possible effects on the baby. |
How should I use the medicine?
- Drink with a glass of water: Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by the doctor, at the right time.
- Before or after food?: This can be taken with or without food. However, if you feel like you have an upset stomach, it is best to take the medicine with some food.
- Do not take it too often: Do not take more than the prescribed amount or take the medicine earlier than the prescribed time.
- If given to children: If this medicine is given to children under 12 years of age, it should be decided after talking to a pediatrician.
- For the elderly: People over the age of 65 may feel the effects of this medicine a little stronger. Therefore, they may be prescribed a lower dose.
What if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I forget to take my medicine?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But 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 should not be used with this medicine and that you should be careful with
It's very important to tell your doctor about all the medications you take, even vitamins and traditional medicines, because some medications can interact with this one.
| Do not take these with anything. | |
|---|---|
| MAOI medications for depression (e.g. Parnate, Nardil). It is not recommended to take this medication for at least two weeks after stopping these. | |
| Be very careful when taking these with you. | |
| Alcohol | Excessively increases drowsiness and dizziness. |
| Sleeping pills, tranquilizers | It greatly increases sleepiness. |
| Some medications for high blood pressure | It may affect the effectiveness of those medications. |
| Other allergy or cold medications | It is possible to ingest more of the same type of medicine. |
Be aware of these things when taking medication.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: This is a major side effect of this medication. Therefore , do not drive or operate machinery while taking this medication. Be careful when getting up from a sitting position or getting out of bed, especially if you are elderly.
- Dry mouth: You may feel like your mouth is dry. Chewing sugarless gum, sucking on a candy bar, or drinking water frequently can help.
- Dry eyes and blurred vision: If your eyes feel dry, ask your doctor about using lubricating drops. If you wear contact lenses, this can be a bit inconvenient.
Side effects of the medicine
| If these symptoms occur, inform your doctor immediately. | |
|---|---|
| Severe allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and skin rashes | Difficulty breathing |
| Rapid or irregular heartbeat | High blood pressure |
| Vision changes, seizures | Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine |
| Usually not dangerous, but if it persists, tell your doctor. | |
| Headache | Appetite |
| Anxiety | Nausea |
How do you store your medicine properly?
Keep this medicine out of the reach of children . Keep the bottle tightly closed at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Discard any expired medicine.
Take-Home Message
- Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor about all other illnesses you have and all other medicines you are taking.
- Avoid drinking alcohol while taking the medicine.
- This medication may cause drowsiness. Therefore, be very careful when driving or doing tasks that require concentration.
- Never give someone else a medicine that was prescribed for you. It can be dangerous.
- If symptoms do not improve or worsen, see your doctor again.
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