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DEXTROMETHORPHAN; GUAIFENESIN (dex troe meth OR fan; gwye FEN e sin) is a combination of a cough suppressant and expectorant. It is used for the temporary relief of coughs. This medicine is also used to loosen mucus.
Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked spoon or dropper to measure each dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one. Household spoons are not accurate. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 2 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
confusion
excitement, nervousness, restlessness, or irritability
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
headache
stomach upset
Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:
MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
procarbazine
This medicine may also interact with the following medications:
other medicines for colds or allergy
medicines for depression or other mental disturbances
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep bottle tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
kidney disease
liver disease
lung disease like asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema
taken an MAOI like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, or Parnate in last 14 days
unable to sit up
an unusual or allergic reaction to dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, other medicines, foods, dyes, bromides, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
Do not treat yourself for a cough for more than 1 week without consulting your doctor or health care professional. If you have a high fever, skin rash, lasting headache, or sore throat, see your doctor.
Drink water daily while you are taking this medicine to help loosen mucus.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.