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Decongestant/expectorant (By mouth)

Treats stuffy nose and chest congestion caused by hay fever, colds, sinus problems, or flu.

Brand Name(s):

Aldex GS, Ambifed, Ambifed-G, Bronkaid Dual Action Formula, Chest Congestion Relief PE, Children's Mucinex Stuffy Nose & Chest Congestion, Children's Triaminic Chest & Nasal Congestion, Deconex IR, ED Bron GP, Entex LQ, Entex T, EntexPAC, ExeFen IR, Foster&Thrive Chest Congestion Relief PE, Foster&Thrive Mucus Relief D

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to any decongestant or cough medicine. You should not use this medicine if you have taken an MAO inhibitor such as Nardil®, Marplan®, Eldepryl®, or Parnate® within the past 14 days. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 4 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Liquid Filled Capsule, Long Acting Capsule, Tablet, Long Acting Tablet, Coated Tablet, Liquid, Chewable Tablet

  • Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
  • Follow the instructions on the medicine label if you are using this medicine without a prescription.
  • You may take your medicine with food or milk to avoid stomach upset.
  • To help loosen mucus or phlegm in the lungs, drink a glass of water after taking this medicine.
  • This medicine may make you restless. If you have trouble sleeping, take your medicine well before bedtime.
  • Chew the chewable tablet thoroughly before you swallow it, or you may let the chewable tablet melt slowly in your mouth. If you use any other kind of tablet or capsule, swallow it whole. Do not crush, break, or chew, unless the directions say you may break or open it.
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. You might need to shake the medicine before using it.

If a dose is missed:

  • Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using medicine to lower your blood pressure. It may not work properly if you also use a decongestant/expectorant.
  • Avoid using diet pills (Accutrim®, Dexatrim®) while using this medicine.
  • You should not use with an MAO inhibitor (Nardil®, Marplan®, Eldepryl®, or Parnate®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
  • Before using this medicine, let your doctor know if you have heart disease, asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, liver disease, glaucoma, disorder of the urinary tract, or an overactive thyroid.
  • This medicine might contain phenylalanine (aspartame). This is only a concern if you have a disorder called phenylketonuria (a problem with amino acids). Talk to your doctor before using this medicine.
  • This medicine might contain alcohol or sodium (salt). If you are not sure what is in the medicine and you are concerned, ask your pharmacist.
  • Children may be more sensitive to this medicine than adults, especially if too much medicine is used. Always read medicine labels closely and give your child the right amount. If you are not sure how much medicine to use, ask your pharmacist.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe headache
  • Trouble breathing
  • Skin rash, hives, or itching

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

  • Restlessness
  • Stomach upset
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Irritability

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 12/4/2023

 
 
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