diphenhydramine and phenylephrine

What is the most important information I should know about diphenhydramine and phenylephrine?

Do not use diphenhydramine and phenylephrine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine, and others.

Do not use this medicine to make a child sleepy. Ask a doctor before giving the medicine to a child younger than 6 years old.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine that may contain diphenhydramine. Taking too much of this medicine can lead to a fatal overdose.

What is diphenhydramine and phenylephrine?

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine. Phenylephrine is a decongestant.

Diphenhydramine and phenylephrine is a combination medicine used to treat runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and sinus congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

Diphenhydramine and phenylephrine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking diphenhydramine and phenylephrine?

Do not use diphenhydramine and phenylephrine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, and tranylcypromine, and others.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have ever had:

• asthma or COPD, cough with mucus, or cough caused by smoking, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis;
• high blood pressure, heart disease;
• an enlarged prostate or urination problems;
• glaucoma;
• diabetes; or
• a thyroid disorder.

This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Check the medication label if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take diphenhydramine and phenylephrine?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or cough medicine is only for short-term use.

Ask a doctor before giving the medicine to a child.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

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

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since diphenhydramine and phenylephrine is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdose symptoms may include vomiting, confusion, severe drowsiness, ringing in your ears, no urination, very dry eyes and mouth, dilated pupils, fast heartbeats, tremor, agitation, hallucinations, or seizure.

What should I avoid while taking diphenhydramine and phenylephrine?

What are the possible side effects of diphenhydramine and phenylephrine?

• severe drowsiness;
• sleeplessness;
• painful or difficult urination;
• fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeats;
• trouble breathing;
• anxiety, nervousness;
• a seizure; or
• problems with balance or speech.

Common side effects may include:

• dizziness, drowsiness, headache;
• dry mouth, nose, or throat;
• nausea, vomiting, constipation;
• blurred vision; or
• trouble sleeping.

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 diphenhydramine and phenylephrine?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using diphenhydramine and phenylephrine with any other medicines, especially drugs that can cause drowsiness (such as opioid medication, sleep medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about diphenhydramine and phenylephrine.