The main problems that come with a cold are cough, phlegm, and nasal congestion. So when we go to a doctor at a time like this, we can often be given a single medicine, especially a syrup, that works for all three symptoms. That's what we're going to talk about today. In this, three main types of medicines have been combined together. Let's see what these are, how they work, and what things to be careful about when using them.
What does this medicine contain?
This is a combination of three medications. Simply put, it's a '3-in-1' solution .
1. Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant. It works by temporarily blocking the cough signal to the brain, reducing the frequent, painful, dry cough.
2. Guaifenesin: This is an expectorant that helps thin and loosen thick mucus in the chest, making it easier to cough up. Once the mucus is cleared, the chest tightness and discomfort are greatly reduced.
3. Phenylephrine: This is a decongestant. It reduces swelling of the blood vessels inside the nose, relieving difficulty breathing.
The important thing is that this medicine only controls symptoms. That means it will not cure a viral or bacterial infection in your body. It is up to your body's immune system to cure it.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
There are a few things you should tell your doctor before prescribing this medication. Be sure to tell him or her if you have any of the following medical conditions:
- If you have diabetes.
- If you are a man, you have an enlarged prostate.
- If you have glaucoma in your eyes.
- If you have heart disease or high blood pressure.
- If you have a thyroid condition.
- If you have a lung disease like asthma.
- If you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother.
- If you have an allergic reaction to these medications or any other medicine, food, or dye.
- This is very important: If you have used a drug belonging to the class of MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors), a special type of medication used to treat mental illnesses (e.g. Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate), within the past 14 days , you must definitely mention it.
The correct way to use the medicine
- Drink with a glass of water: Drink a glass of water while taking this syrup. It will further help thin the mucus.
- Correct measurement: Take only the dose your doctor tells you to take. Use only the measuring cup or special spoon that comes with the medicine bottle. Do not use regular teaspoons or tablespoons that you have at home. They are not accurate.
- When given to children: Doctors sometimes prescribe this medicine even to children over 4 years of age. But it should only be done on medical advice. If you are giving this medicine to your child, talk to your pediatrician about it.
- For the elderly: If someone over 60 is taking this medicine, they may have a stronger reaction than the average person. So a lower dose may be prescribed.
What if I drink too much by mistake?
If you think you have taken too much medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
Other things that may interact with this medicine (Interactions)
Some medications can cause problems when taken with this syrup, so it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.
| Things that can cause problems | Description and examples |
|---|---|
| Never take these with you. | |
| Types of MAOI medications | Medications for depression such as Carbex, Marplan, and Nardil. |
| Stimulants | Medications for attention problems, weight loss, or alertness. |
| Ergot Alkaloids | Some medications for migraines, such as dihydroergotamine. |
| If you are taking these with food, ask your doctor. | |
| Alcohol | Drowsiness and dizziness may be very severe. |
| Other cold medicines | Other cough, phlegm, or allergy medications. |
| Mental health medication | Medications for conditions such as depression and anxiety. |
| Sleeping pills | Sleeping pills or medications given to induce sleep during surgery. |
| Medications for heart disease and high blood pressure | Medicines for heart disease and blood pressure, such as Metoprolol and Digoxin. |
Side effects that may occur when taking the medicine
Like any medicine, this one can cause side effects in some people. Some of them are serious, some of them are common.
Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately:
- Allergic reactions: skin rash, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, or face.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Extreme restlessness, irritability.
- Tremor or seizures.
- Confusion.
- Unusual tiredness or weakness.
Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to your doctor if they persist:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset
- Diarrhea
- Tiredness
- Insomnia
Don't be afraid to talk to your doctor about anything unusual you feel while taking this medicine.
Take-Home Message
- This medicine only controls symptoms such as cough, phlegm, and nasal congestion. It does not cure the infection.
- When taking medication, be sure to use the measuring cup that comes with it. Do not take more than the dose your doctor tells you to take.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any medical conditions you have (especially diabetes, heart disease, blood pressure).
- This medicine may cause drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery. Do not drink alcohol.
- If your cough lasts more than a week, you have a high fever, or skin rash, see a doctor again.
- Keep the medicine bottle out of the reach of children, at room temperature, and away from light. Throw away after the expiration date.
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