Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Tylenol Chest Congestion, Comtrex Deep Chest Cold Non Drowsy, Tylenol Chest Congestion Daytime Non-Drowsy
- Cough/Cold, Other Combos;
- Analgesic/Expectorant Combos
Description
Acetaminophen blocks pain impulse generation peripherally & may inhibit the generation of prostaglandin in the CNS; reduces fever by inhibiting the hypothalamic heat-regulating center
Guaifenesin increases respiratory tract fluid secretions & helps to loosen phlegm & bronchial secretions
Indications
Indicated in Cough, Fever, Headache, Minor Aches & Pains
s
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
G-6-PD deficiency
Severe hepatic impairment
Adverse Effects
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Headache
Dermatologic rash
Nausea
Vomiting
Anemia blood dyscrasias (neutropenia, pancytopenia, leukopenia)
Bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase may increase
Warnings
Acetaminophen hepatotoxicity possible in chronic alcoholics following various dose levels; severe or recurrent pain or high or continued fever may indicate a serious illness; contained in many OTC products and combined use with these products may result in toxicity due to cumulative doses exceeding recommended maximum dose
Acetaminophen: Risk for rare, but serious skin reactions that can be fatal; these reactions include Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP); symptoms may include skin redness, blisters and rash
Guaifenesin is not for administration in persistent cough associated with chronic bronchitis, smoking, asthma, or accompanied with excessive secretions
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: excreted in breast milk; use caution
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs
Maximum Dosage
1 packet dissolved in 8 oz of hot water q6hr; not to exceed 4 packets/day; consume entire drink within 10-15 minutes
Pediatric
<12 years
Ask a pediatrician
>12 years
1 packet dissolved in 8 oz of hot water q6hr; not to exceed 4 packets/day; consume entire drink within 10-15 minutes