Therapy:
Dextromethorphan: Antitussive / Cough suppressant
Chlorpheniramine: Antiallergic
Phenylephrine: Decongestant
Class:
Dextromethorphan: NMDA receptors Antagonist
Chlorpheniramine: Antihistamine H1 Receptor Antagonist
Phenylephrine: Selective Alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Mechanism of Action:
Dextromethorphan:
It is an antitussive agent that works to suppress coughing. It acts on the cough centre in the brain to reduce the urge to cough, providing relief from dry and irritating coughs.
Chlorpheniramine:
It has H1-antagonist activity belonging to the alkylamine class of antihistamines and it appear to compete with histamine for receptor sites on effector cells. It antagonizes the allergic response vasodilatation, increased vascular permeability, increased mucus secretion of nasal tissue.
Phenylephrine:
It stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors on the nasal mucosa (direct effect) causing vasoconstriction of local vessels. The vasoconstrictive action decreases mucosal edema, leading to a decongestant effect.
Indications:
- For relief of coughs and upper respiratory symptoms, including nasal congestion, associated with allergy or the common cold.
Dosage & Administration:
For Adults and Children Aged 12 and Older:
1 teaspoonful or 5 mL every 4 to 6 hours.
For Children Aged 6 to Under 12 years of age:
1/2 teaspoonful or 2.5 ml every 4 to 6 hours.
For Children Aged 2 to Under 6 years of age:
Give 1/4 teaspoonful or 1.25 mL every 4 to 6 hours.
HOW SUPPLIED:
References:
- De Oliveira GG, Feitosa A, Loureiro K, Fernandes AR, Souto EB, Severino P. Compatibility study of paracetamol, chlorpheniramine maleate and phenylephrine hydrochloride in physical mixtures. Saudi Pharm J. 2017 Jan;25(1):99-103.
- Lam SHF, Homme J, Avarello J, Heins A, Pauze D, Mace S, Dietrich A, Stoner M, Chumpitazi CE, Saidinejad M. Use of antitussive medications in acute cough in young children. J Am Coll Emerg Physicians Open. 2021 Jun 18;2(3)
- Green JL, Wang GS, Reynolds KM, Banner W, Bond GR, Kauffman RE, Palmer RB, Paul IM, Dart RC. Safety Profile of Cough and Cold Medication Use in Pediatrics. Pediatrics. 2017 Jun;139(6)
