Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Tylenol Cold Severe Congestion
- Cough/Cold, Non-narcotic Combos;
- Analgesic/Antitussive/Decongestant/Expectorant Combos
Description
Acetaminophen blocks pain impulse generation peripherally and may inhibit the generation of prostaglandin in the CNS. Reduces fever by inhibiting the hypothalamic heat-regulating center.
Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that acts centrally on the cough center in the medulla.
Pseudoephedrine stimulates the alpha-adrenergic receptors causing bronchodilation and vasoconstriction.
Guaifenesin increases respiratory tract fluid secretions and helps to loosen phlegm and bronchial secretions.
Indications
For Symptomatic Relief of Cough & Congestion
Contraindications
Documented hypersensitivity to the drugs or within 14 days of MAO inhibitor therapy; known G-6-PD deficiency
Adverse Effects
Arrhythmia
Palpitations
Convulsion
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Excitability
Headache
Tremor
Weakness
Dermatologic rash
GI disturbances
Nausea
Vomiting
Anemia blood dyscrasias (neutropenia, pancytopenia, leukopenia)
Bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase may increase
Warnings
Caution in cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, prostatic hypertrophy and increased intraocular pressure when taking pseudoephedrine
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
Do not take dextromethorphan 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; dextromethorphan may slow the breathing
Guaifenesin is not for administration in persistent cough associated with chronic bronchitis, smoking, asthma, or accompanied with excessive secretions
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
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients should seek advice of health professional before using OTC drugs
Maximum Dosage
2 tablets PO q6hr; not to exceed 8 tablets/day
Pediatric
<12 Years Old
Not recommended
>12 Years Old
2 tablets PO q6hr; not to exceed 8 tablets/day
How supplied
acetaminophen/dextromethorphan/pseudoephedrine/guaifenesin
tablet
- 325mg/15mg/30mg/200mg