Let's learn about this medicine for colds and allergies? (Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine)

Do you also have a runny nose all the time? Or do you sneeze, have a stuffy nose, and watery eyes when you touch dust? This is a medicine that we often use for symptoms of allergies and colds. But this is not a medicine that cures an infection, it only controls the symptoms. So, if a doctor prescribes this medicine for you, it is very important to know exactly what it is. Let's talk about this.

What kind of medicine is this?

Simply put, this is a combination of two medications. One is an antihistamine . This is used to control things like itching, sneezing, and watery eyes. The other is a decongestant . This works by constricting the blood vessels in the nose, reducing things like nasal congestion and mucus. When these two are combined, you get relief from the annoying symptoms of colds and allergies.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

It is important for your doctor to have a complete history of your health before prescribing this medication. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions listed below.

• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Difficulty urinating or prostate problems
• Glaucoma condition
• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Thyroid diseases
• Stomach ulcers or other gastrointestinal problems
• If you have taken an MAOI (a type of medication used to treat certain types of depression) within the past 14 days.
• If you have an allergic reaction to this medicine or other medicines, foods, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

How should I use the medicine?

Be aware of these points when using this medicine.

• Correct dosage: Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the time prescribed. Use only the special measuring spoon or container that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use household teaspoons, syrup bottle caps, etc., as their measurements are not accurate.
• Food: This medicine can be taken before or after meals. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.
• Children and adults:
• For children: If you are giving this medicine to children, be sure to talk to your pediatrician about it. Even if it is prescribed in some cases, there are some things to be careful about.
• People over 65: If you are over 65, you may react more severely to this medication. Therefore, your doctor may prescribe a lower dose.

Overdose

If you think you have taken too much medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not take this lightly.

What if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take a dose, take it 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 the same time.

Other things that may interact with the medication

This medicine may interact with other medicines you are taking. So tell your doctor about all the medicines you are taking (including vitamins and herbal products). Especially do not take it with the medicines listed below.

• MAOI type medication
• Some migraine medications
• Stimulant medicines that increase attention and help with weight loss

Also, alcohol, other medications that cause drowsiness, medications for high blood pressure, and medications for mental illness can interact with this medication. Avoid alcohol completely as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness if taken with this medication.

What are the possible side effects?

Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some of these are serious, some are common. It's important to be aware of these.

What else should you be careful about when taking the medicine?

Drowsiness: This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore , do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything that requires concentration until you know how you feel after taking this medicine. Be careful when getting up or sitting down suddenly, especially if you are an elderly person.

Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect of this medication. This can be controlled by chewing sugarless gum, sucking on a candy bar, and drinking plenty of water.

How to store and dispose of medicine?

Store the medicine bottle at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius), away from light, and in a dry place. Most importantly, keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

If you need to get rid of expired or unwanted medication, check the label to see if it is safe to throw away. If you are not sure, ask your doctor. If it is safe to throw away, take the medication out of the bottle, mix it with something like used tea leaves, coffee grounds, or soil, and put it in a sealable bag and throw it in the trash.

Cold, Allergy, Brompheniramine, Pseudoephedrine, Nasal Congestion, Medication, Side Effects