Guaifenesin + Dextromethorphan + Menthol
Indications
This preparation is indicated for chest congestion, cough & sore throat.
Composition
Each 5 ml syrup contains-
- Guaifenesin BP 200 mg
- Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide BP 15 mg
- Menthol USP 15 mg
Pharmacology
Guaifenesin is an expectorant. It helps loosen congestion in the chest and throat, making it easier to cough out through the mouth. Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is a cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex. Menthol is an organic compound made synthetically or obtained from corn mint, peppermint or other mint oils. It has local anesthetic and counter irritant qualities and it is widely used to relieve throat irritation.
Dosage & Administration
Adult use: Only (12 years and over) 2 tea spoonful syrup (10 ml) every 6 hours.
Maximum dose: 8 tea spoonful syrup (40 ml)/day.
Pediatric use: Do not use for children less than 12 years of age.
Maximum dose: 8 tea spoonful syrup (40 ml)/day.
Pediatric use: Do not use for children less than 12 years of age.
Interaction
Possible reactions systemically may occur with acetaminophen or hydrocodone, diphenhydramine, escitalopram, acetaminophen or codeine, alprazolam & ondansetron.
Contraindications
If you are now taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for two weeks after stopping the MAOI drug. If you do not know if your prescription drug contains an MAOI ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.
Side Effects
Common side effects are dizziness, drowsiness, gastrointestinal disturbance, feeling nervous, restless, anxious or irritable.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide and Guaifenesin have been assigned to pregnancy category C by the FDA. There are no controlled data on this combination product in human pregnancy. Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide and Guaifenesin is only recommended for use during pregnancy when benefit outweighs risk. There are no data on the excretion of Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide and Guaifenesin into human milk. In nursing mothers, a decision should be made to discontinue. There are no human studies on the use of Menthol during pregnancy, thus, its risk is undetermined.
Precautions & Warnings
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using this product if you have asthma, chronic lung disease/ shortness of breath, persistent/ chronic cough or taking a drug for depression, including monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor drugs.
Overdose Effects
Overdose with Guaifenesin is unlikely to produce toxic effect since its toxicity is low. In severe cases of overdose, treatment should be aimed at reducing further absorption of the drug. Gastric emptying is recommended as soon as possible after ingestion. Overdose with Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide may produce excitement and mental confusion. Very high doses may produce respiratory depression. One case of toxic psychosis after ingestion of a single 300 mg dose of Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide has been reported. Menthol can be harmful in large amounts. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrheoa, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, rapid breathing etc.
Therapeutic Class
Combined cough expectorants, Combined cough suppressants
Storage Conditions
Store in a cool (below 30°C) and dry place, away from light. Keep out of the reach of children.
