Do you also have a very difficult time with a stuffy nose, sneezing and coughing all the time? When we go to see a doctor, we often get this kind of medicine. It usually comes in the form of a syrup. So today, let's talk about what this medicine really is, what it does to our body, and what we need to be especially careful about when using it.
What really happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this is a combination of three medications. Each of them does a different job. Think of it like giving three answers to three questions in one place.
- Antihistamine: Dexchlorpheniramine is a type of antihistamine that helps control allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes.
- Cough suppressant: The dextromethorphan component in this works by suppressing the cough center in the brain, stopping the annoying dry cough.
- A decongestant: This contains pseudoephedrine, which constricts the blood vessels inside the nose, reducing nasal congestion and sinusitis, making it easier for you to breathe.
But one thing is important to remember. This medicine only controls the symptoms. It does not cure a viral or bacterial infection in your body. It is like raising an umbrella when it is raining. It stops the wetness, but it does not stop the rain.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
This medicine is not suitable for everyone. If you have any medical conditions, it is essential to inform your doctor before using this medicine.
| If you have this condition... | Why is notification important? (in brief) |
|---|---|
| Asthma or other lung problems | This medicine may increase breathing difficulties. |
| Diabetes | Some medications can affect blood sugar levels. |
| Glaucoma | The pressure inside the eyes may increase. |
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | Pseudoephedrine can increase heart rate and blood pressure. |
| Prostate problems or difficulty urinating | Urination may become more difficult. |
| Thyroid disease | Symptoms may sometimes worsen. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | It is essential to seek medical advice before taking any medication during pregnancy. |
| If a mother is breastfeeding her child | The medicine can pass to the baby through breast milk. |
How exactly do I use this medicine?
- Take this medicine with a glass of water.
- Shake the bottle well before use. This is a must, as the medication may settle to the bottom of the bottle.
- If you feel an upset stomach after taking the medicine, take it with a meal or a glass of milk.
- Use a special cap or measuring cup to measure the medicine. Do not use household teaspoons or rice spoons for this, as they will not give an accurate measurement.
- Take the prescribed dose at the time prescribed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or take more than the prescribed amount.
- If you are giving this medicine to young children , talk to a pediatrician about it and get advice. Sometimes it is prescribed for children over 2 years of age, but there must be special reasons for it.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have accidentally taken more than the prescribed dose, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital. Do not take this lightly.
What other medications should not be used with this medicine?
Some medications can interact with this medicine and cause dangerous conditions. Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and traditional medicines).
| Do not take this medicine with anything! | |
|---|---|
| A class of medications called MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) . These are a type of medication that is usually prescribed for conditions like depression. If you are taking one of these medications or have recently stopped taking them, you should tell your doctor. | |
| Be careful when taking these things with you. | |
|
Side effects to be aware of when taking medication
This medicine may make you feel drowsy and dizzy . Therefore, avoid doing activities that require maximum concentration, such as driving or operating machinery, while taking this medicine. Be careful, especially if you are elderly, as you may feel dizzy and fall when standing up or sitting down suddenly.
Also, this medication can make your skin sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, if you are going to be in the sun, it is a good idea to use sunscreen.
Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately
- Severe allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing
- Feeling like your heart is beating fast or irregularly
- Seeing or hearing things that are not really there (Hallucinations)
- Excessive increase or decrease in blood pressure
- Restlessness, restlessness
- Having a seizure
- Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine you produce
- Change in eyesight
- Feeling unusually tired or fatigued
Side effects that are usually not serious, but can be bothersome
- Dry mouth, nose, and throat
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Stomach upset, nausea
- Appetite
- Difficulty falling asleep
If you experience any other unusual symptoms not mentioned in this list, talk to your doctor about them as well.
Take-Home Message
- This medicine only controls the symptoms of colds and allergies, not cures the disease.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have (such as diabetes, high blood pressure) and any other medications you are taking.
- Use only the measuring cup or lid provided with the medicine to measure it. Do not use household spoons.
- Avoid driving and activities that require alertness, as drowsiness may occur after taking this medicine.
- If you accidentally take too much medicine, immediately go to the National Poisons Information Centre or the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
- If you have any questions or concerns, never hesitate to ask your doctor.
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