Ztuss
Key points
- Guaifenesin is an expectorant which helps to loosen mucus.
- Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed.
- Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach upset, dry mouth or constipation may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication.
- Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, emphysema, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, a history of drug dependency, allergies.
GUAIFENESIN/DECONGESTANT/NARCOTIC ANTITUSSIVE/ANTIHISTAMINE-ORAL
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
S-T Forte, Triaminic DH
USES:
Guaifenesin is an expectorant which helps to loosen mucus. Decongestants relieve nasal stuffiness. Narcotic antitussives are narcotic pain relievers in low doses which suppress a cough. Antihistamines relieve runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose and throat and itchy, watery eyes. This combination medication is used to treat symptoms associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, sinusitis and other respiratory illnesses.
HOW TO TAKE THIS MEDICATION:
Take this medication as prescribed. Be sure to follow instructions closely. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. This medication is best taken with a full glass of water after a meal or snack.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, loss of appetite, nausea, stomach upset, dry mouth or constipation may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor if any of these effects continue or become bothersome. Notify your doctor if you develop:
chest pain, a rapid pulse, skin rash, high blood pressure, difficulty urinating, tremors, nervousness, hallucinations, breathing trouble. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, asthma, emphysema, high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble, depression, a history of drug dependency, allergies. Use caution performing tasks requiring alertness if this medication causes you to feel drowsy. Check this product's ingredient list for phenylpropanolamine (PPA). The FDA has issued warnings regarding PPA side effects. Consult your pharmacist promptly if it contains PPA or if you are uncertain this product has PPA. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including:
medication for blood pressure, antidepressants, sedatives, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, phenelzine, selegiline, tranylcypromine), cimetidine and narcotic pain medications (e.g.,codeine). Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages while taking this medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
