Let's learn more about this cough and phlegm medicine (Dexchlorpheniramine, Dextromethorphan, Pseudoephedrine) right away.

We all know the discomfort of a cold, a stuffy nose, a constant runny nose, a cough, and a sore chest. Sometimes these symptoms can also be caused by an allergy. So, at times like these, we often see a doctor and take medicine. Then, one of the most popular medicines we get is honey that reduces cough and phlegm. Today, we are talking about one such commonly used combination of medicines.

What exactly is this medicine?

Simply put, this is a combination of three medicines. That means that the same medicine does three things. These are:

1. Dexchlorpheniramine: This is an antihistamine . An antihistamine is used to control allergy symptoms. For example, it reduces things like a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing.

2. Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant . It works by temporarily suppressing the activity of the cough center in the brain, stopping the frequent, painful, dry cough.

3. Pseudoephedrine: This is a decongestant . When you have a cold, the small blood vessels inside your nose swell, causing your nose to become stuffy. This medicine works by causing those blood vessels to shrink, reducing nasal congestion and making it easier to breathe.

So, with the combination of these three, you get relief from a lot of the symptoms that come with sinusitis, a cold, or allergies. But the most important thing to remember is that this medicine only controls the symptoms. It will not cure an underlying infection.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Before prescribing any medication, it is essential that your doctor knows your complete health history. In particular, before taking this medication, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Asthma or other lung-related condition.
• Diabetes. Because some of the ingredients and sweeteners in this medicine can affect blood sugar levels.
• Skin diseases such as eczema.
• Glaucoma (increased eye pressure).
• Heart disease or high blood pressure. This is very important because the pseudoephedrine it contains can further increase blood pressure.
• Prostate problems or difficulty urinating.
• Stomach ulcer.
• Thyroid diseases.
• If you have an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in this medicine or to other medicines, foods, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother.

How to use the medicine?

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, in the right dose, at the right time. Take this medicine with a glass of water. If you feel upset stomach, it is best to take it with a meal or a glass of milk.

The most important thing is to use the special cap, cup, or syringe that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use teaspoons or tablespoons that you have in your kitchen. They may not measure accurately, and you may end up taking too much or too little medicine.

When given to children

This medicine is sometimes prescribed by doctors for children over 2 years of age. However, there are special precautions for it. Therefore , never give this medicine to your child without medical advice. Talk to your pediatrician about how to give the medicine to your child and the dosage to know exactly.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose, go to the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately . Or, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .

NB: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share it with anyone else for any reason.

What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?

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 a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

Interactions with this medicine

Some medications can cause serious reactions when taken with this honey. In particular, if you are taking MAOI (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors) for depression or other conditions (e.g. Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate), taking this honey is strictly prohibited.

In addition, this medicine may interact with the following:

• Alcohol
• Barbiturates - some types of drugs that make you sleepy
• Blood pressure medication
• Medications for conditions such as depression and anxiety
• Other sleeping pills
• Other medicines for colds, coughs, or allergies
• Stimulants to treat attention problems, lose weight, or stay awake

Tell your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements you take. Also, tell him if you smoke or drink alcohol.

Be careful of these things when taking medicine.

• Drowsiness and dizziness: This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy. Therefore, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. If you are an elderly person, stand up slowly when you get up quickly or from a sitting position. This can reduce the risk of dizziness and falls.
• Alcohol: Taking this medication with alcohol can cause increased drowsiness. Therefore, avoid alcohol completely while taking the medication.
• Sunlight: This medication may make your skin sensitive to sunlight. So, avoid sun exposure as much as possible. If you must go out in the sun, wear clothing that covers your skin and use sunscreen.

Side effects of the medicine

Like any medicine, this one can have some side effects. Some of them are serious, some are not so serious.

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