Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine; Pyrilamine chewable tablets
DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine; Pyrilamine chewable tablets

July 17, 2018

Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine; Pyrilamine chewable tablets

What is this medicine?

DEXTROMETHORPHAN; PHENYLEPHRINE; PYRILAMINE (dex troe meth OR fan; fen il EF rin; peer ILL a meen) is a combination of a cough suppressant, a decongestant and an antihistamine. It is used to relieve cough and congestion from a cold or allergy. This medicine will not treat an infection.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Chew or crush well. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Patients over 65 years old may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • changes in vision

  • fast, irregular heartbeat

  • high or low blood pressure

  • irritable, nervous, restless, tremors

  • seizures

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

  • unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

  • headache

  • loss of appetite

  • nausea, vomiting

  • sensitivity to sunlight

  • stomach upset

  • trouble sleeping

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

  • MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

  • alcohol or any product containing alcohol

  • medicines for depression, anxiety, or psychotic disturbances

  • medicines for high blood pressure

  • medicines for sleep

  • other cough and cold medicines

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • asthma

  • blood vessel disorder

  • diabetes

  • eczema or other allergic condition

  • glaucoma

  • high blood pressure or heart disease

  • kidney or liver disease

  • prostate trouble or difficulty passing urine

  • stomach ulcer or other stomach disorder

  • thyroid disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, pyrilamine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Updated:  

July 17, 2018