Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold & Cough Effervescent
Analgesic/Antihistamine/Antitussive/Decongestant Combos
Description
Temporary Relief of Common Cold Cough & Upper Respiratory Symptoms
Uses/Indications
Indicated for temporary relief of common Cold, cough and upper respiratory track infection.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Liver damage
< 2 years of age
Hypoprothrombinemia
Vitamin K deficiency
Bleeding disorders
Asthma
G6PD deficiency
Uncontrolled or severe hypertension
Due to association of aspirin with Reye syndrome, do not use in children (<16 y) with viral infections
Narrow-angle glaucoma
Symptomatic prostate hypertrophy
Bladder-neck obstruction
Stenosing peptic ulcer
Adverse Effects
Dysrhythmias
Hypotension
Tachycardia
Agitation
Cerebral edema
Coma
Confusion
Dizziness
Headache
Subdural or intracranial hemorrhage
Lethargy
Hives
Rashes
May potentiate peptic ulcer and cause stomach distress or heartburn
Dyspepsia
GI bleeding
Ulceration & perforation
Nausea
Vomiting
Prolongation of prothrombin time
Warnings
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 decrease respiration rate
Chlorpheniramine: May cause significant confusional symptoms; not for administration to premature or full-term neonates
Phenylephrine: Caution in elderly patients, hyperthyroidism, myocardial disease, bradycardia, partial heart block or severe arteriosclerosis
Pregnancy and Lactation
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
Maximum Dosage
Adults
2 tabs fully dissolved in 4 oz of water q4hr; not to exceed 8 tablets/day
Pediatric
<12 years old: Ask a pediatrician
>12 years old: 2 tablets fully dissolved in 4 oz of water q4hr; not to exceed 8 tablets/day
How supplied
Effervescent Tablet
325mg/2mg/10mg/7.8mg