When we have a cold, flu, or cough, we all feel a little uncomfortable, right? So at this time, many of us buy a syrup from a pharmacy to treat coughs and phlegm. But are we really aware of these medicines? Today we are talking about a commonly used combination of medicines. This one has three ingredients combined together.
What kind of medicine is this?
Simply put, this is a "3-in-1" medicine. This type of honey contains three main types of medicines.
1. Antihistamine: This is used to control allergy symptoms (rash, watery eyes, sneezing).
2. Decongestant: This works by relieving nasal congestion, reducing mucus, and making breathing easier.
3. Cough Suppressant: This is used to control a persistent, painful, dry cough.
The important thing is that this medicine only controls symptoms. If you have a bacterial or viral infection, this medicine will not cure that infection. That requires separate treatment.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
This medicine is not suitable for everyone. Therefore, before you take this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following medical conditions.
| Medical condition | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | This medication can increase blood pressure and heart rate. |
| Diabetes (Diabetes Mellitus) | Sometimes blood sugar levels may change. |
| Glaucoma | Eye pressure may increase. |
| Respiratory diseases (e.g. asthma, COPD) | Breathing difficulties may increase. |
| Thyroid diseases | Symptoms may worsen. |
| Prostate problems in men | Difficulty urinating may occur. |
| Stomach or intestinal ulcers, blockages | These situations can get worse. |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | In these cases, it should never be used without medical advice. |
| If you are taking MAOI antidepressants | If you have taken this type of medication in the past 14 days, using this honey can be very dangerous. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
- Correct dosage: Take only the dose prescribed by your doctor, at the prescribed time. Use only the special spoon, cup, or oral syringe that comes with the medicine bottle. You cannot measure accurately with teaspoons or tablespoons at home.
- For children: Doctors sometimes recommend this medicine for children over 2 years of age. But only under strict medical supervision. Do not give these to young children without medical advice.
- For seniors: People over the age of 65 may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, so they are usually prescribed a lower dose.
What do you do if you drink too much by mistake?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Also, if possible, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice. Treat this as an emergency.
Things not to use with this medicine
Some medications can react with this honey and cause dangerous side effects. So tell your doctor about all medications and vitamins you are taking.
| Never use these with names! | |
|---|---|
| MAOI -type antidepressants | (Ex: Marplan, Nardil, Parnate) |
| Some migraine medications (Ergot alkaloids) | (e.g. ergotamine) |
| Be very careful when using these together (inform the doctor) | |
| Alcohol | Severely increases drowsiness and dizziness. |
| Sedatives, sleeping pills | Drowsiness may increase excessively. |
| Other allergy or cough/cold medications | Side effects may increase. |
| Blood pressure medications | These medications may interfere with their effectiveness. |
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Drowsiness and dizziness: This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
- Don't get up suddenly: Getting up suddenly from a sitting or lying position can cause dizziness and fall. Get up slowly, especially if you are elderly.
- Dry mouth: Dry mouth is common . This can be controlled by things like chewing sugarless gum and drinking plenty of water.
What are the possible side effects?
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Severe allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Increased blood pressure | Severe headache, chest pain, difficulty breathing. |
| Seizures | Sudden onset of pain. |
| Serotonin Syndrome | Inability to concentrate, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, muscle stiffness, high fever, sweating. |
| Difficulty urinating | No or scanty urination. |
| Side effects that are usually nothing to worry about, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Restlessness, anxiety | Feeling strange. |
| Dizziness | Feeling dizzy. |
| Dry mouth | Feeling like saliva is stuck in the mouth. |
| Insomnia | Difficulty falling asleep at night. |
Take-Home Message
- Always consult your doctor before using any combination medicine for coughs and colds, especially if you have other medical conditions.
- Give your doctor a complete list of all other medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking.
- Never exceed the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Do not measure medicine using teaspoons at home.
- Since this medication may cause drowsiness, avoid driving and activities that require attention after taking it.
- Seek immediate medical attention if severe side effects (facial swelling, difficulty breathing, seizures) occur.
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