Polytussin DM: Uses, indications and cautions when using

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Polytussin DM is a drug that combines many drugs used to treat symptoms of colds, flu, respiratory diseases... Although this is an over-the-counter drug, but due to its composition, It is not recommended for young children and when used, some issues should be noted to limit unwanted effects.

1. What are the uses of Polytussin DM?

Polytussin DM is a combination of ingredients including dextromethorphan, Dexchlorpheniramine and Dexchlorpheniramine used to help relieve symptoms caused by respiratory diseases such as colds, flu or allergies, hay fever.
The ingredients in the product have the following uses:
Dextromethorphan: A drug that works on the cough center to help reduce the cough reflex, thereby helping to relieve cough symptoms. Dexchlorpheniramine: An antihistamine that helps fight inflammation, relieve symptoms caused by allergic conditions, relieve watery eyes, relieve itchy eyes, nose, throat, reduce nasal secretions and reduce sneezing. Phenylephrine hydrochloride is a sympathomimetic agent that effectively relieves respiratory congestion. Therefore, it has the effect of reducing nasal congestion, helping to clear the nose. The drug is recommended for use in children over 6 years of age, but in some cases long-acting is also not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Polytussin DM has the effect of reducing cough, reducing secretions, reducing symptoms of nasal congestion and some symptoms caused by respiratory conditions, but the drug cannot treat the cause of the disease, so it cannot do short duration of illness.

2. How to use Polytussin DM

Medicines used by mouth can be taken with food to reduce abdominal discomfort, when using you should carefully read the instructions for use and depending on the form of the drug, use so that the dose is appropriate for the condition. , your weight.
If you are using liquid medicine, measure the prescribed dose carefully and shake the bottle well before each dose. If you are taking capsules or tablets, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew the medicine before swallowing because doing so can release all of the medicine at once, increasing the risk of side effects. Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless the number is marked and your doctor tells you to divide the dose. If using powder, mix thoroughly with the appropriate amount of liquid and stir well. Drink all the liquid immediately, do not mix it first and then use it in the future. It should be noted that improper use may increase the risk of undesirable effects of the drug.

3. Side effects when taking Polytussin DM

Like other drugs, there is a risk of side effects when taking this medicine, including:
Common side effects include: Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, stomach upset, sadness vomiting, dry mouth, dry nose, constipation. To reduce symptoms of dry mouth, you can suck on sugar-free hard candies, chew gum, drink plenty of water, etc. However, if the above effects persist or worsen, you should contact a medical professional for help. Tell your doctor if you experience serious side effects such as mental or mood changes (e.g. confusion, hallucinations), ringing in your ears, tremors, difficulty urinating. Some very serious side effects can be very rare but dangerous such as easy bruising or bleeding, black stools, vomiting blood, heart rhythm disturbances (fast, slow, irregular heartbeat), convulsions. A very serious allergy to this medicine is very unlikely, but seek medical attention right away if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic condition may include: rash or itching on the skin, swelling especially of the face or throat), difficulty breathing, severe dizziness.

4. Notes when using Polytussin DM

To limit the side effects of drugs when taking th
Before taking this medicine tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to this medicine or to drugs with one of the similar ingredients; or if you have any other allergies. In addition, this product may contain ingredients that are inactive but can still cause allergic reactions or other problems, so pay attention. Before using this medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of other respiratory problems such as bronchial asthma, emphysema; diabetes, certain eye problems such as glaucoma; heart problems, high blood pressure ; kidney problems; liver disease; convulsions; stomach and intestinal problems; hyperthyroidism; urination disorders This medicine may have some side effects that make you dizzy, drowsy or blurred your vision. Alcohol or alcoholic beverages can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything that requires alertness or clear vision until you can work safely. Limit alcohol intake to reduce the risk of side effects. To minimize the side effects of dizziness and lightheadedness, do it slowly when getting up from a sitting or lying position. This medicine may contain the ingredient aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to limit your intake of aspartame consult your doctor or pharmacist on how to safely use this medication. The liquid preparations of this product may contain sugar or alcohol so caution should be exercised if you have diabetes, liver disease should consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the safest use. Elderly people may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially dizziness, drowsiness, mental or mood changes, constipation, heart palpitations, trouble urinating, or changes in blood pressure. Dizziness, drowsiness and confusion may increase the risk of falls, so care should be taken in the elderly taking this medicine. Children may be more sensitive to the effects of antihistamines in the drug, so it is not recommended for children under 6 years of age. In young children, this medicine may cause agitation, euphoria instead of drowsiness. During pregnancy, this medicine should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug can pass into the milk ducts, so it is not recommended for use in nursing women. Polytussin DM is a mixture of 3 drugs to treat symptoms caused by colds, flu and respiratory diseases. However, this drug is used to treat symptoms, cannot treat the cause of the disease, so it cannot reduce the duration of the disease.

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Reference source: webmd.com