DECONGESTANT/OPIOID ANTITUSSIVE/GUAIFENESIN - ORAL
PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION:
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Maxifed CD, Maxifed-G CD
GENERIC NAME(S): pseudoephedrine HCl/codeine phosphate/guaifenesin
Uses
USES: This combination medication is used to temporarily treat cough, chest congestion, and stuffy nose symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, or other breathing illnesses (e.g., sinusitis, bronchitis). Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps thin and loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier to cough up the mucus. The decongestant helps relieve stuffy nose symptoms. This product also contains an opioid cough suppressant (antitussive) that affects a certain part of the brain, reducing the urge to cough. This medication is not usually used for ongoing coughs from smoking, asthma, other long-term breathing problems (e.g., emphysema), or coughs with a lot of mucus unless directed by your doctor. Do not use this product in children younger than 18 years. There is a risk of serious (rarely fatal) side effects, such as breathing problems. Cough-and-cold products do not cure colds. Cough due to a common cold often does not need to be treated with medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms, such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier, or saline nose drops/spray.
How to use DECONGESTANT/OPIOID ANTITUSSIVE/GUAIFENESIN - ORAL
HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide if available from your pharmacist before you start taking this product and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth with or without food with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) or as directed by your doctor. This medication can be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. The fluid will help loosen the mucus in your lungs. If you are using the liquid form, use a medication-measuring device or spoon to carefully measure the prescribed dose. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If your liquid form is a suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or use this product more often or for longer than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. This medication may cause withdrawal reactions, especially if it has been used regularly for a long time or in high doses. In such cases, withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, restlessness, sweating, shaking, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea) may occur if you suddenly stop using this medication. To prevent withdrawal reactions, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details, and report any withdrawal reactions right away. Though it helps many people, this product has a risk for abuse and may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol). Take this product exactly as prescribed to lower the risk of addiction. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details. When used for an extended time, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well. Tell your doctor if your condition persists for more than 1 week, if it worsens, or if it occurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a doctor.
Side Effects
Precautions
Interactions
Overdose
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Faq for DECONGESTANT/OPIOID ANTITUSSIVE/GUAIFENESIN - ORAL
- This medication is commonly used to relieve symptoms of congestion and cough associated with colds, flu, allergies, or other respiratory conditions.
- Decongestants work by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages to reduce swelling and congestion. Opioid antitussives suppress the cough reflex in the brain. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps loosen and thin mucus in the airways.
- Common side effects may include dizziness, drowsiness, headache, nausea, upset stomach, or nervousness. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
- It is not recommended to take decongestant medications if you have high blood pressure or certain heart conditions. It is advisable to consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
- Some decongestant/opioid antitussive/guaifenesin oral medications may be safe for children over a certain age, but it is important to consult with a pediatrician before giving any medication to a child. Dosage and safety considerations may vary based on age and weight.
- It is best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They can provide guidance on the safety and potential risks associated with these medications.
- The onset of action can vary depending on the specific medication and individual response. Typically, the effects of decongestants can be felt within 30 minutes to an hour, whereas the cough-suppressing effects of opioid antitussives may take slightly longer. Guaifenesin may take a few days to work at its full potential.
- It is important to discuss all medications, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs, with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting any new medication. Some medications may interact with decongestants, antitussives, or guaifenesin, potentially causing adverse effects or reducing effectiveness.
- Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medication's packaging. Usually, these medications are taken for a short duration (3-7 days) to relieve acute symptoms. Prolonged use may lead to tolerance, dependency, or other complications.
Warning
WARNING: Taking this product with other medications that may also cause drowsiness or breathing problems may increase your risk of very serious side effects, including death. To lower your risk, your doctor should have you take the smallest dose of this product that works, and take it for the shortest possible time. See also Drug Interactions section. Get medical help right away if any of these very serious side effects occur: slow/shallow breathing, unusual lightheadedness, severe drowsiness/dizziness, difficulty waking up.
Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
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