Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin

Generic Name: guaifenesin and hydrocodone

Brands: Co-Tussin, Codiclear DH, Codotuss, Cotuss V, Entuss, Fentuss Expectorant, G-Tuss, Gua HC, Hycoclar Tuss, Hycoclear, Hycosin Expectorant, Hycotuss Expectorant, Hydrotuss, Kwelcof, Medcodin, Pneumotussin 2.5, Propatuss Expectorant, Tusso-DF, Vicoclear, Vico

What is the most important information I should know about Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

· Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin.

· Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any other medicine without first talking to your doctor.

· Hydrocodone is habit forming. It is possible to become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

What is Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin?

· Guaifenesin is an expectorant. Guaifenesin loosens phlegm and increases the lubrication of the lungs allowing for a productive cough and decreased chest congestion.

· Hydrocodone is a narcotic. It is a pain reliever and a cough suppressant.

· Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin is used to treat cough and nasal congestion associated with the common cold, allergies and infections.

· Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin?

· Hydrocodone is habit forming and should only be used under close supervision by patients with past or current alcohol or drug addiction.

· Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have ·kidney disease; ·liver disease; ·asthma; ·urinary retention; ·an enlarged prostate; ·hypothyroidism; ·seizures or epilepsy; ·gallbladder disease; ·a head injury; or ·Addison's Disease.

· You may not be able to take Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin passes into breast milk and may be harmful to a nursing baby. Do not take Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.

How should I take Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin?

· Take Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand the directions on your prescription bottle, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain the instructions to you.

· Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin can be taken with or without food.

· Take the oral tablets and capsules with a full glass of water.

· To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

· Do not take more of this medication or take it for longer than is recommended. If your symptoms do not improve, or if they worsen, talk to your doctor.

· Store Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

· Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

· Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

· Symptoms of a Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin overdose may include extreme drowsiness, dizziness, headache, seizures, dry mouth, cold and clammy skin, flushing, nausea, vomiting, difficult or decreased breathing, and unconsciousness.

What should I avoid while taking Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin?

· Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin.

· Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, pain, or sleep medications while taking Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin without first talking to your pharmacist or doctor. Other medications may also contain hydrocodone, guaifenesin or other similar drugs, and you may accidentally take too much of these medicines.

What are the possible side effects of Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: ·a rare but serious allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or ·confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin and talk to your doctor if you experience ·dizziness, drowsiness, or sleepiness; ·restlessness or irritability; ·blurred vision; ·constipation; ·dry mouth; ·nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite; ·muscle twitches; ·sweating; ·itching; or ·decreased urination.

· Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin?

· Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine unless your doctor approves.

· Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, pain, or sleep medications while taking Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin without first talking to your pharmacist or doctor. Other medications may also contain hydrocodone, guaifenesin, or other similar drugs, and you may accidentally take too much of these medicines.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products.

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has more information about Hydrocodone-Guaifenesin written for health professionals that you may read.

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