(Dextromethorphan, Phenylephrine Hcl, Cetirizine Hcl, Chlorpheniramine Maleate)

Dextromethorphan, Phenylephrine HCl, Cetirizine HCl, and Chlorpheniramine Maleate are commonly used medications for treating cold and allergy symptoms. These include a combination of cough suppressants, antihistamines, and decongestants. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that acts on the central nervous system to reduce coughing. Phenylephrine HCl is a decongestant that helps relieve nasal congestion. Cetirizine HCl and Chlorpheniramine Maleate are antihistamines used to relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

Indications

Dextromethorphan: Used to suppress coughs caused by common colds, flu, or other illnesses. Phenylephrine HCl: Used to relieve nasal congestion associated with colds, hay fever, or other respiratory allergies. Cetirizine HCl: An antihistamine used to relieve symptoms of allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes. Chlorpheniramine Maleate: Another antihistamine used for allergy relief and to alleviate cold symptoms such as sneezing and runny nose.

Dosage

Dextromethorphan: Typically taken orally in doses ranging from 10-20 mg every 4-6 hours as needed. Phenylephrine HCl: Often administered in doses of 10 mg every 4 hours as needed, without exceeding the maximum daily dosage. Cetirizine HCl: Usually taken once daily in doses of 10 mg for adults and children over 6 years old. Chlorpheniramine Maleate: Typically taken in doses of 4 mg every 4-6 hours as needed.

Contra-Indications

-Known hypersensitivity to any of the components. -Dextromethorphan should not be taken concurrently with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). -Phenylephrine HCl should be avoided in patients with severe hypertension, coronary artery disease, or certain other cardiovascular issues.

Special Precautions

-Use with caution in patients with hypertension, heart disease, glaucoma, diabetes, thyroid problems, or prostatic enlargement. -May cause drowsiness; caution is advised when operating heavy machinery or driving. -Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Side Effects

-Dextromethorphan: Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea. -Phenylephrine HCl: Nervousness, headache, dizziness, or increased blood pressure. -Cetirizine HCl: Drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, or dizziness. -Chlorpheniramine Maleate: Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, or blurred vision.

Drug Interactions

-Dextromethorphan can interact with MAOIs, SSRIs, and other serotonergic medications. -Phenylephrine HCl may interact with MAOIs, tricyclic antidepressants, and other antihypertensive drugs. -Cetirizine HCl can interact with other sedatives, alcohol, and CNS depressants. -Chlorpheniramine Maleate may interact with alcohol and other CNS depressants.