Are you aware of this type of medicine (Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine; Pyrilamine) that you are giving to your cough and cold?

You too may have a cough or cold, and your nose may be very stuffy, right? So at times like these, a doctor may prescribe you a medicine like this. This is actually a combination of three medicines: one is a cough suppressant ( Dextromethorphan ), the other is a nasal decongestant ( Phenylephrine ), and the last one is a nasal decongestant ( Pyrilamine ). But remember, this medicine only reduces the symptoms, it does not cure the underlying disease, such as an infection .

What are the things I need to tell the doctor before taking this medicine?

Before you start using this medicine, you should definitely tell your doctor or the pharmacist this information, as this medicine may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions , or may need to be used with great caution.

Here are the things you need to know:

• If you have asthma .
• If you have any disease related to blood vessels .
• If you have diabetes .
• If you have skin allergies like eczema .
• If you have high pressure in the eyes (Glaucoma) .
• If you have high blood pressure or heart disease .
• If you have any kidney or liver disease.
• If you are a man, you may have a prostate problem or difficulty urinating.
• If you have a stomach ulcer or other stomach disease, such as gastritis .
• If you have a thyroid disorder.
• If you have previously had an allergy to the medications `(Dextromethorphan)`, `(Phenylephrine)`, `(Pyrilamine)`, or any other medication, food, dyes, or preservatives.
• If you are pregnant , or hoping to have a baby .
• If you are a mother who is breastfeeding .

By telling you these things correctly, the doctor can determine exactly whether this medicine is right for you or not, and how much to give you.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is a syrup that you take by mouth. You should follow the directions on the prescription label given to you by your doctor.

• You should shake the bottle well before using it. Because this is a ``suspension'', the medicine particles need to be mixed with the liquid properly. Otherwise, you may get less medicine at some times and more at others.
• Use a specially designed measuring spoon or cup to measure the medicine. Do not use ordinary teaspoons or tablespoons that you find at home. They are not accurate. If you do not have such a measuring spoon, ask the pharmacy for one.
• Take the prescribed amount at the prescribed times as prescribed by your doctor. Never take more than the prescribed amount or more than the prescribed number of times.

When giving this medicine to small children

Doctors sometimes prescribe this medicine to children as young as two years old. But only in special cases, and there are some things to be very careful about. Therefore, if you are giving this medicine to your little one, be sure to talk to a pediatrician and follow his or her instructions exactly. Give only the dosage prescribed by the doctor, and exactly as prescribed.

For those over 65 years of age

If someone over the age of 65 is taking this medication, they may feel the effects of this medication a little stronger. This means they are more likely to experience side effects . Therefore, the doctor may reduce the dosage.

What if I take too much medicine by mistake? (Overdosage)

If you think you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately, or call the National Hospital Poison Information Center. Don't waste time.

Important note: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give this medicine to anyone else for any reason, even if they have the same symptoms as you. The right medicine and dosage for each person is different.

What do you do if you miss a medication appointment?

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.

What other things can interact with this medicine?

There are some medications that can cause problems when taken together with this medicine. That is, there is a possibility that this medicine may interfere with its effectiveness or increase its side effects.

Do not take this medicine with the following medications:

• Medicines in the class of medicines called `MAOIs` (examples: `Carbex`, `Eldepryl`, `Marplan`, `Nardil`, `Parnate`). These are medicines usually given for mental illnesses. If you are taking any of these medicines, you should tell your doctor .

This medicine may also interact (conflict) with the following:

• Alcohol (liquor) or any product containing alcohol.
• Medications for depression, anxiety , or other mental illnesses.
• Medication for high blood pressure .
• Sleeping pills.
• Other cough and cold medicines (because they may contain similar ingredients, which can increase the risk of overdose.)

This list is not exhaustive. Therefore, tell your doctor about all the medicines you take (prescribed, over-the-counter, herbal, vitamins, dietary supplements). Also tell your doctor if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use other drugs.

Be careful of these things when taking medicine.

• If your symptoms don't improve , or if they seem to be getting worse , tell your doctor .
• This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy. Therefore, until you know exactly how this medicine affects you, avoid driving, operating machinery, or doing anything that requires concentration.
• Don't get up suddenly from a standing or sitting position, especially if you are elderly. Doing so can cause dizziness and you may fall.
• Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol can change the effects of this medicine and may make you more sleepy.

What are the possible side effects of this medicine?

Like any medicine, this medicine can cause side effects in some people. Not everyone gets them, but some people can.

If you experience these symptoms, you should tell a doctor immediately:

• Allergic reactions include skin rashes, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, and tongue.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Vision changes (like blurred vision).
• If your heart feels like it is beating fast or irregularly .
• Sudden increase or decrease in blood pressure.
• If you constantly feel anxious, restless, or have tremors .
• If it comes like a fit (seizures).
• If you have difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine you pass.
• If you feel unusually tired or weak .

These side effects are usually not a big deal, but if they persist or are bothersome, tell your doctor :

• Headache
• The food is tasteless.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Sensitivity to sunlight (skin turns red quickly, burning).
• An upset stomach (abdominal discomfort).
• Difficulty falling asleep.

This list is not all possible side effects. If you notice anything else unusual, please consult your doctor.

How should I store the medicine?

It is also very important to store your medication properly.

• Keep out of reach of children. These are not toys for them.
• Store at room temperature (between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit).
• Protect from light. That means don't keep it in places where it gets strong sunlight or is exposed to lights.
• Tighten the cap of the bottle tightly and keep it closed.
• Throw away expired medicine without using it.

Finally, things to remember

Simply put, this combination of medicines called `(Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine; Pyrilamine)` helps relieve symptoms such as cough, nasal congestion, and sneezing caused by colds. However, it is very important to follow the doctor's instructions exactly when using this, and to inform the doctor about other diseases you have and other medications you are taking. Only then will you be able to safely and properly benefit from this medicine. If you have any questions or doubts, never be afraid to ask your doctor or pharmacist. Your health is very important to you, right?