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Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan

Generic name: chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan

Brand names: Children's NyQuil Cold and Cough, Coricidin HBP Cough and Cold, Cough And Cold, Robitussin Pediatric Cough and Cold Long-Acting, Scot-Tussin Sugar Free DM, Dimetapp Long Acting Cough Plus Cold, Triaminic Cough and Runny Nose, Triaminic Cough and Runny Nose Softchews, Triaminic Night Time Cough and Runny Nose, Effective Strength Cough Syrup, Primatuss 4, Tricodene Sugar Free, Robitussin Cough and Cold Long-Acting, Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold, Children's Robitussin

Used for common cold
Last updated November 1, 2026 0 views
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What is chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan?

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant.

Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan is a combination medicine used to treat sneezing, a runny nose, and a cough caused by the common cold.

Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

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How should I take chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cough or cold medicine is only for short-term use until your symptoms go away.

Always follow the instructions on the medicine label when giving cough or cold medicine to a child. Do not use the medicine just to make a child sleepy. Misusing cough or cold medicines in very young children can lead to death.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

You must chew the chewable tablet before swallowing it.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches.

If you need surgery or medical tests, tell your surgeon or doctor if you are currently using this medicine.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.

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Warnings

Do not use this medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

Do not use cough or cold medicine to make a child sleepy.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Before taking this medicine

Do not use chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the last 14 days. This could lead to a serious drug interaction. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to chlorpheniramine or dextromethorphan.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe for you if you have:

  • glaucoma;
  • an enlarged prostate;
  • urination problems; or
  • a cough with mucus, or a cough caused by smoking, asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Check the medication label if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).

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Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; trouble breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan and call your doctor right away if you have severe drowsiness.

Older adults may be more likely to experience side effects such as dry mouth, constipation, and confusion.

Common side effects of chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan may include:

  • dizziness, drowsiness;
  • dry mouth, nose, or throat;
  • constipation;
  • blurred vision; or
  • feeling restless or excited (especially in a child).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan dosing information

Usual Pediatric Dose for Cough and Nasal Congestion:

Chlorpheniramine-dextromethorphan 1 mg-5 mg oral tablet, chewable:>=6 <12 yrs: 2 tablets orally, chewed or dissolved before swallowing, every 4 to 6 hours not to exceed 6 doses daily.Chlorpheniramine-dextromethorphan 1 mg-5 mg/5 mL oral liquid:>=6 <12 yrs: 10 mL orally every 4 to 6 hours not to exceed 6 doses daily.Chlorpheniramine-dextromethorphan 1 mg-7.5 mg/5 mL oral liquid:>=6 <12 yrs: 10 mL orally every 6 hours not to exceed 4 doses daily.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since cough or cold medicine is taken as needed, you might not have a set dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

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What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

  • Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.
  • Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

What other drugs will affect chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan?

Do not use this medicine with other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing (such as opioid medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other medication, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this medication guide.

This section was rewritten for readability and reviewed for meaning.

Related medicines

Before you take this medicine: the information on this page is general and may not cover your personal circumstances. Read the label supplied with your medicine and ask a pharmacist or doctor if you are unsure, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medicines or managing a long-term condition.
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Content is provided for education and is not medical advice. See our medical disclaimer.