carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenyle... Health Article

Generic name(s):

carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine

Brand name(s):

carbetapentane/diphenhydramine/phenylephrine, D-Tann CT, Dytan-CS

What is the most important information I should know about carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine 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 carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine.

What is carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine?

Carbetapentane is a cough suppressant.

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine. It blocks the effects of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body. Diphenhydramine prevents sneezing; itchy, watery eyes and nose; and other symptoms of allergies and hay fever.

Phenylephrine is a decongestant. It works by constricting (shrinking) blood vessels (veins and arteries) in the body. Constriction of blood vessels in the sinuses and nose decreases congestion.

Carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine is used to treat cough and nasal congestion associated with allergies or the common cold.

Carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, 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 carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine?

Do not take carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine if you have taken selegiline (Carbex, Eldepryl) or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

• epilepsy or another seizure disorder;

• been diagnosed with sleep apnea (periods of not breathing during sleep);

• thyroid problems;

• asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);

• gallbladder disease;

• a head injury;

• Addison's disease;

• diabetes;

• glaucoma;

• an ulcer or an obstruction in the stomach;

• bladder problems or difficulty urinating;

• an enlarged prostate;

• high blood pressure, irregular heartbeats, or any type of heart disease;

• kidney problems; or
• liver problems.

You may not be able to take carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether this medication will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine may pass into breast milk and be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine. You may need a lower dose of this medication.

How should I take carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine?

Take carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine exactly as directed. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of this medication can cause serious harm.

Do not take carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine for longer than is prescribed. If your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if they are accompanied by fever, talk to your doctor.

Store carbetapentane, diphenhydramine, and phenylephrine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.