We all know the pain of a stuffy, runny nose when we have a cold. Or we get sick from a sudden allergy and sneeze all the time. So today we are going to talk about a commonly used medication that doctors prescribe to control our symptoms at times like these.
What is this medicine? Let's understand it simply.
This medicine is actually a combination of two main drugs. Diphenhydramine and Phenylephrine . Let's see what happens with these two.
- Diphenhydramine: This is an antihistamine . Simply put, it works by controlling the chemical 'histamine' that our bodies produce during allergies. This helps control sneezing, itchy skin, watery eyes, and runny nose.
- Phenylephrine: This is a decongestant . Its main function is to reduce nasal congestion. In the case of a cold or sinus problem, the blood vessels inside the nose swell, causing the nose to become blocked. This medicine reduces that swelling and makes breathing easier.
The most important thing: This medicine only controls your symptoms. That means it controls things like stuffy nose and runny nose, but it does not cure a bacterial or viral infection that you have. That may require separate treatment.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important for your doctor to be aware of your complete health status before prescribing this medication. This is because using this medication with certain medical conditions can be risky. Therefore, if you have any of the following medical conditions, be sure to tell your doctor.
| Medical condition/other matters | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| Diabetes | Sometimes it can affect blood sugar levels. |
| Glaucoma | There is a possibility of increasing eye pressure. |
| Heart disease or high blood pressure | Blood pressure and heart rate may increase. |
| Thyroid disease | Symptoms may worsen. |
| Difficulty urinating | This situation could get worse. |
| Stomach ulcers or blockages | The digestive system may be affected. |
| Recent use of MAOI medications (used for mental illness) | May cause dangerously high blood pressure (if taken within the last 14 days). |
| If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or are a breastfeeding mother | In such cases, it is essential to seek medical advice before taking any medication. |
How should I use this medicine?
This usually comes in the form of a chewable tablet . Keep these things in mind when using it.
- Chew thoroughly: Do not swallow this tablet with water. First, place it in your mouth , chew it completely, and then crush it and swallow.
- Take it on time: Take the prescribed dose at the time your doctor prescribes. Never take more than the prescribed amount.
- If given to children: This medicine is sometimes prescribed to children over 6 years of age. But only under the supervision of a doctor. So if you are giving this to your child, talk to your doctor about it.
- If you are over 65: Older people may feel the effects of this medicine more strongly. Therefore, a lower dose may be prescribed.
- Overdose: If you think you have accidentally taken too much of this medicine, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not give it to anyone else who has the same symptoms as you.
What to do if you miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take your medicine, take it 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 a double dose.
Other things that can cause problems with this medicine (Interactions)
Some medications, foods, and lifestyle habits may interact with this medication, so it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
- Do not take with: MAOI medications, bromocriptine, ergot alkaloids (some migraine medications), and some stimulants used to help with concentration and weight loss.
- These can also cause side effects: Alcohol, other medicines that cause drowsiness (cough and cold medicines, painkillers, tranquilizers), muscle relaxers, caffeine, digoxin (a medicine for heart disease).
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Drowsiness and dizziness: This medicine may make you feel drowsy and dizzy . Therefore, avoid driving or operating machinery while taking this medicine until you know how it affects you.
- Don't stand up too quickly: Getting up suddenly from a sitting or standing position can cause dizziness and fall. This is especially important for older people.
- No alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
- Sun sensitivity: Your skin may be slightly sensitive to sunlight while taking this medication. Therefore, if you are going out in the sun, wear clothing that covers your skin and use sunscreen.
Be aware of side effects
Like any medication, this one can cause side effects in some people. Let's learn what they are and when to tell your doctor.
| Side effect | What to do |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, skin rash, difficulty breathing) | Go to a hospital for treatment immediately. |
| Fast or irregular heartbeat, chest pain | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Vision changes, blurred vision | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Extreme restlessness, agitation | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Difficulty urinating or a change in the amount of urine you produce | Notify the doctor immediately. |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Dry mouth and eyes | Drink more water. If it persists, tell your doctor. |
| Headache | Rest. If it persists, tell your doctor. |
| Nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort | Take the medicine after a meal. If it persists, tell your doctor. |
| Difficulty falling asleep | Avoid taking the medicine close to bedtime. If it persists, tell your doctor. |
Take-Home Message
- This is a chewable tablet. Chew completely before swallowing.
- This medicine may cause drowsiness . Therefore, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
- Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking and any illnesses you have.
- Avoid alcohol completely while taking the medicine.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects (such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, facial swelling).
- This medicine should be given with extreme caution to children and the elderly, and should only be given under medical advice .
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