dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine

What is the most important information I should know about dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine?

Do not use this medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

What is dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine?

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.

Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in your chest and throat, making it easier to cough out through your mouth.

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose).

Dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine is a combination medicine used to treat cough, stuffy nose, sinus congestion and chest congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

Dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine?

Do not use this medicine if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, and tranylcypromine.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine if you have:

• high blood pressure or coronary artery disease;
• diabetes;
• glaucoma;
• epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
• enlarged prostate or urination problems;
• pheochromocytoma (an adrenal gland tumor); or
• cough with mucus, or cough caused by emphysema or chronic bronchitis.

Artificially sweetened cold medicine may contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), check the medication label to see if the product contains phenylalanine.

How should I take dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Cough and cold medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.

Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Drink extra fluids to help loosen the congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking this medication.

If you need surgery or medical tests, tell the surgeon or doctor ahead of time if you have taken this medicine within the past few days.

Do not take for longer than 7 days in a row. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache or skin rash.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since this medicine is taken when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine?

What are the possible side effects of dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine?

• fast or uneven heart rate;
• severe dizziness or anxiety, feeling like you might pass out;
• severe headache;
• mood changes;
• fever; or
• dangerously high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision, buzzing in your ears, anxiety, chest pain, uneven heartbeats, seizure).

Common side effects may include:

• diarrhea;
• dizziness, drowsiness;
• sleep problems (insomnia); or
• feeling nervous, restless, or irritable.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you are also using any other drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Some medicines can cause unwanted or dangerous effects when used together. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and pseudoephedrine.