(Paracetamol, Chlorpheniramine Maleate, Phenylephrine, Sodium Citrate)

Paracetamol, chlorpheniramine maleate, phenylephrine, and sodium citrate are active ingredients often combined in medication formulations for treating symptoms of cold and flu. Paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) is an analgesic and antipyretic, providing pain relief and fever reduction. Chlorpheniramine maleate is an antihistamine that helps alleviate symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. Phenylephrine is a decongestant that works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages, providing relief from congestion. Sodium citrate serves as an expectorant, helping to loosen and expel mucus from the respiratory tract.

Indications

Fever Headache Nasal congestion Runny nose Sneezing Sore throat Cough

Dosage

-Paracetamol: Up to 1000 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 4000 mg in 24 hours. -Chlorpheniramine Maleate: Usually around 4 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 24 mg in 24 hours. -Phenylephrine: Approximately 10 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 60 mg in 24 hours. -Sodium Citrate: Dosages vary, typically around 10 ml every 4-6 hours.

Contra-Indications

-Known hypersensitivity to any of the active ingredients. -Patients with severe hypertension, severe coronary artery disease, or those using MAO inhibitors. Individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma or severe renal impairment.

Special Precautions

-Paracetamol: Monitor for signs of liver toxicity, especially in cases of prolonged use or in patients with existing liver conditions. -Chlorpheniramine Maleate: May cause drowsiness; caution when operating heavy machinery or driving. -Phenylephrine: Caution in patients with heart conditions, high blood pressure, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or difficulty urinating. -Sodium Citrate: Use cautiously in patients with electrolyte imbalances or those on a low-sodium diet.

Side Effects

-Paracetamol: Rarely, liver toxicity may occur with excessive dosages. -Chlorpheniramine Maleate: Drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness. -Phenylephrine: Increased blood pressure, palpitations, restlessness. -Sodium Citrate: Gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea and diarrhea.

Drug Interactions

-Paracetamol: May interact with other medications metabolized by the liver, such as certain anticonvulsants. -Chlorpheniramine Maleate: Increased sedative effects when taken with other central nervous system depressants. Phenylephrine: Interactions with MAO inhibitors may lead to hypertensive crisis; interactions with other decongestants or stimulants may increase blood pressure. -Sodium Citrate: May interact with certain medications, including those that alter electrolyte balance.