acetaminophen/ chlorpheniramine/ dextrometho... Health Article

How should I take acetaminophen/ chlorpheniramine/ dextromethorphan/ phenylpropanolamine?

Take acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine exactly as directed. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of this medication can cause serious harm. The maximum amount of acetaminophen for adults is 1 gram (1000 mg) per dose and 4 grams (4000 mg) per day. Taking more acetaminophen could cause damage the liver. If you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day, talk to your doctor before taking acetaminophen and never take more than 2 grams (2000 mg) per day.

Do not take acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine for longer than 7 days in a row. If your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you have a fever, see your doctor.

Store acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of an acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine overdose include a dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, seizures, confusion, an irregular heartbeat, hyperactivity, or hallucinations.

What should I avoid while taking acetaminophen/ chlorpheniramine/ dextromethorphan/ phenylpropanolamine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine. Alcohol may also cause damage to the liver when it is taken with acetaminophen.

Acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, other antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine is taken with any of these medications.

What are the possible side effects of acetaminophen/ chlorpheniramine/ dextromethorphan/ phenylpropanolamine?

If you experience any of the following rare but serious side effects, stop taking acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine and seek emergency medical attention or notify your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, or severe fatigue);

• blood problems (easy or unusual bleeding or bruising); or

• low blood sugar (fatigue, increased hunger or thirst, dizziness, or fainting).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take acetaminophen/chlorpheniramine/dextromethorphan/phenylpropanolamine and talk to your doctor or try another similar medication if you experience

• dryness of the eyes, nose, and mouth;

• drowsiness or dizziness;

• blurred vision;

• difficulty urinating; or

• excitation in children.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.