Aspirin/Chlorpheniramine/Dextromethorphan

DEA Class;  OTC

Common Brand Names; Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu

Temporary Relief of Common Cold Cough & Upper Respiratory Symptoms

Indicated for temporary relief of common Cold, cough and upper respiratory track infection.

Hypersensitivity

Liver damage

Hypoprothrombinemia

Vitamin K deficiency

Bleeding disorders

Asthma

Due to association of aspirin with Reye syndrome, do not use in children (<16 years) with viral infections

Narrow-angle glaucoma

Symptomatic prostate hypertrophy

Bladder-neck obstruction

Stenosing peptic ulcer

Agitation

Agranulocytosis

Anorexia

Cerebral edema

Coma

Confusion

Depression

Dizziness

Dyspepsia

Dysrhythmias

Euphoria

Fatigue

GI bleeding

Headache

Hemolytic anemia

Hives

Hypotension

Insomnia

Irritability

Lethargy

Aspirin may cause transient decrease in renal function and aggravate chronic kidney disease; avoid use in patients with severe anemia, with history of blood coagulation defects, or taking anticoagulants

Dextromethorphan: do not take for persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if it is accompanied by excessive phlegm unless directed by a healthcare provider; may slow respiration rate

Chlorpheniramine: may cause significant confusional symptoms; not for administration to premature or full-term neonates

Pregnancy category: D; avoid during pregnancy, particularly in third trimester because of risk for premature closure of the ductus arteriosus

Lactation: Excreted in breast milk; do not breast feed

Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs

Adults

Alka-Seltzer Plus Flu: 2 tablets fully dissolved in 4 oz of water q6hr; not to exceed 8 tablets/day

Pediatric 

<12 years: Ask a pediatrician

>12 years: 2 tablets fully dissolved in 4 oz of water q6hr; not to exceed 8 tablets/day

Tablet, effervescent

500mg/2mg/15mg