There is no need to talk about the troubles that come with a cold. A stuffy nose, runny nose, constant sneezing, and a cough are also very uncomfortable. Some people have allergies and these symptoms are the same. So when you go to see a doctor at a time like this, you may be given a syrup made by combining these three medicines. Let's talk about this medicine today.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this is a combination of three medications. Each of them does different things.
1. Chlorpheniramine: This is an antihistamine. This means it controls allergy symptoms. It reduces sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
2. Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant. That is, it temporarily blocks the signal that tells our brain to cough.
3. Phenylephrine: This is a ``decongestant'' type of medicine. That is, it constricts the blood vessels inside the nose, reducing nasal congestion and making it easier to breathe.
But remember this: This medicine only controls your symptoms. That means it won't cure the virus that caused your cold or any other infection. It's like putting a sink under a leaking pipe. It won't stop the leak, but it will stop the water from going everywhere.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking medicine
Before your doctor prescribes this medication, it is important to tell them if you have any of the following medical conditions. This is very important for your safety.
- Diabetes
- Skin diseases like eczema
- Glaucoma condition
- Heart disease or high blood pressure
- Lung diseases like asthma
- A condition called Phenylketonuria (PKU)
- Stomach ulcer
- Thyroid disease
- Difficulty urinating
- If you have taken an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) antidepressant (e.g. Nardil, Parnate) within the past 14 days.
- If you have allergies to this medicine or any other medicines, foods, or preservatives.
- If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding.
How should I use this medicine?
Be aware of these points when using this medicine.
- Correct dosage: Take the exact amount your doctor tells you to take. Use only the dropper or measuring cup provided with the medicine. Do not measure with teaspoons or syrup spoons, as this can cause an inaccurate dose.
- Time of taking: Take at the appointed time. If you feel an upset stomach, take it with food. Otherwise, it is okay to take it before/after a meal.
- For children: Do not give this medicine to young children without first consulting a doctor. Especially avoid giving this medicine to children under 2 years of age.
- Adults: If you are over 60 years of age, your body may react more strongly to this medicine. So you may need a lower dose. Talk to your doctor about this.
What if you drink too much by mistake? (Overdose)
Never drink more than the doctor has told you to. If you accidentally drink too much, it can be dangerous. If this happens , immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
What are the things you should not take with this medicine? (Interactions)
When taking this medicine, you should also be careful about the other medications you are taking. Some medications can react with this medicine and cause dangerous conditions.
| Things you should not take with this medicine | |
|---|---|
| Type of medicine/substance | Description |
| MAOI type medication | Some medications for depression (e.g. Marplan, Nardil). Taking these together can cause high blood pressure. |
| Other cold and cough medicines | Taking too much of the same type of medication can increase side effects. |
| Alcohol | Severely increases drowsiness and dizziness. |
| Some painkillers and sleeping pills | Increases the risk of drowsiness and respiratory distress. |
Additionally, this medicine may interact with medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, and mental illness . Therefore, be sure to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and traditional medicines) .
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this one can have side effects, but not everyone gets them.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. | |
| Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, difficulty breathing, skin rash) | Seek medical advice immediately. This is an emergency. |
| Rapid or irregular heartbeat | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Severe dizziness, feeling like you're going to faint | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Difficulty urinating | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| If these symptoms persist or are bothersome, tell your doctor. | |
| Drowsiness, dizziness | Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. |
| Dry mouth and throat | Chewing sugar-free gum or sipping water can provide relief. |
| Insomnia, restlessness | If it persists, tell the doctor. |
| Stomach upset, nausea | This can be reduced by taking the medicine with food. |
How do you store medicine properly?
- Keep away from children. This is very important.
- Store at room temperature (between 15-30 degrees Celsius). Protect from excessive heat and light.
- Keep the bottle cap tightly closed.
- Discard after expiration.
Take-Home Message
- This medicine only controls the symptoms of colds and allergies, not cures the disease.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have.
- Take only the dose prescribed by your doctor, as directed. Never take more.
- Avoid driving or performing tasks that require alertness as this medication may cause drowsiness. Avoid drinking alcohol completely.
- If you experience any severe side effects (such as difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat), seek medical advice immediately.
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