acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine Health Article

Generic name(s):

acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine

Brand name(s):

APAP/pheniramine/phenylephrine, Theraflu Cold & Sore Throat, Theraflu Flu & Sore Throat, Theraflu Nighttime Severe Cold

What is the most important information I should know about acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine?

Use this medication exactly as directed on the label, or as it has been prescribed by your doctor. Do not use the medication in larger amounts or for longer than recommended.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of acetaminophen 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 to your 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 use any other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, or pain medication without first asking your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen is contained in many cold and pain medicines available over the counter. If you take certain products together you may accidentally take too much acetaminophen. Read the label of any other medicine you are using to see if it contains acetaminophen.

Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day or if you have had alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis). You may not be able to take acetaminophen.

Do not take this medication for longer than 7 days. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you also have a fever lasting 3 days or longer.

What is acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine?

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer.

Pheniramine is an antihistamine that blocks the effects of a chemical in your body called histamine. Pheniramine prevents sneezing, itchy or watery eyes and nose, and other symptoms of allergies or the common cold.

Phenylephrine is a decongestant used to treat nasal congestion caused by allergies or the common cold.

The acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine combination is used to relieve symptoms of allergies, hay fever, and the common cold.

Acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine?

Do not take acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine if you have taken an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), or selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam) in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you drink more than three alcoholic beverages per day or if you have had alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis). You may not be able to take acetaminophen.

Do not use this medication without a doctor's advice if you have:

• heart disease;

• high blood pressure;

• a thyroid disorder;

• diabetes;

• glaucoma;

• asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing disorder;

• urination problems;

• if you are on a low-salt diet; or

• if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day.

Do not take acetaminophen, pheniramine, and phenylephrine without telling your doctor if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medication to a child younger than 12 years old without the advice of a doctor.