Imagine, when you wake up in the morning, your nose is blocked, you sneeze repeatedly, and you feel very upset. At times like these, most of us are used to going to a pharmacy and asking for a cold medicine. Chlorpheniramine and Pseudoephedrine are a very common combination of medicines that are given for colds, allergies, and nasal congestion. But before using this medicine, there are a few things we need to know. Let's talk about it today.
What exactly is this medicine?
Simply put, this is a combination of two types of medication.
1. Chlorpheniramine: This is a medicine that belongs to the group of drugs called ``antihistamines''. It works by controlling the chemical called histamine that is released in our body when we have allergies. That means it controls things like sneezing, watery eyes and nose, and itching.
2. Pseudoephedrine: This is a medicine in the class of drugs called ``decongestants.'' It works by constricting the blood vessels in the nose, reducing nasal congestion, mucus, and runny nose.
The most important thing is that this medicine only controls symptoms. It does not cure a bacterial or viral infection in your body.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
If you have any of the conditions listed below, be sure to inform your doctor before using this medicine.
- Asthma
- Diabetes
- Difficulty urinating
- Glaucoma
- Heart disease or high blood pressure
- Stomach ulcer
- Thyroid disease
- If you have an allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicine, food, or preservative.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- If you are a breastfeeding mother
How should I use the medicine?
Take this medicine with a glass of water. Always take the medicine according to the dosage and instructions prescribed by your doctor. If you experience stomach upset after taking this medicine, take it with a meal or a glass of milk. Take the medicine at the prescribed time. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
Special occasions
- For children: If you are giving this medicine to your child, talk to a pediatrician about it and only give it on their advice.
- People over 60 years of age: Older people may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, so they may need a lower dose than usual.
- Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, immediately contact the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital. This is an emergency, do not delay.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
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 the next dose at the scheduled time. Never take two doses at the same time.
Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
Some medications may interact with this medicine, so tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking.
| What can be reacted to? | Description |
|---|---|
| Do not take these with anything. | Medicines in the class of medicines called ``(MAOIs)`` used for depression and Parkinson's disease (e.g. Carbex, Eldepryl) |
| Be careful when taking these with you. |
|
Side effects that may occur due to medication
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some are serious, some are common.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Breathing difficulties | Difficulty breathing. |
| Changes in heart rate | Fast or irregular heartbeat. |
| Mental changes | Restlessness, fear, trembling, hallucinations. |
| Other serious symptoms | Blurred vision, difficulty urinating, seizures, extreme fatigue. |
| Side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist or are bothersome | |
| General inconveniences | Dry mouth, nose, and throat, headache, loss of appetite, stomach upset, and insomnia. |
| Drowsiness | The medication may cause drowsiness or dizziness. This usually subsides within a few days. |
This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy . Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Avoid getting up or sitting down too quickly, especially if you are elderly. This can make you more likely to feel dizzy and fall. Drinking alcohol can make this drowsiness worse.
Take-Home Message
- This combination of medications only controls the symptoms of colds and allergies, but does not cure the infection that causes the disease.
- If you have other medical conditions (especially heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure), inform your doctor before taking this medicine.
- Avoid driving and activities that require alertness, as this medication may cause drowsiness.
- If you suspect an overdose, immediately go to the National Poisons Information Center or the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
- If serious side effects (difficulty breathing, chest pain, facial swelling) occur, seek medical advice immediately.
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