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S-T Forte 2

 
Generic Name: chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone

Brands: S-T Forte 2, Tussionex PennKinetic


What is the most important information I should know about S-T Forte 2?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. S-T Forte 2 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 S-T Forte 2.

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

· Hydrocodone may be habit forming. Physical and/or psychological dependence can occur, and withdrawal effects are possible if the medication is stopped suddenly after prolonged or high-dose treatment. Do not stop taking S-T Forte 2 suddenly without first talking to your doctor if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce the dose.

 

What is S-T Forte 2?

· Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. It blocks the effects of the naturally occurring chemical histamine in the body. Chlorpheniramine prevents sneezing; itchy, watery eyes and nose; and other symptoms of allergies and colds.

· Hydrocodone is a pain reliever and a cough suppressant. It suppresses an area in the brain that causes coughing.

· S-T Forte 2 are used together to treat nasal congestion and coughs associated with allergies and the common cold.

· S-T Forte 2 may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

 

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking S-T Forte 2?

· Do not take S-T Forte 2 without first talking to your doctor if you have     ·an allergy to codeine, morphine, or other narcotic medications;     ·kidney disease;     ·liver disease;     ·diabetes;     ·glaucoma;     ·a head injury;     ·heart disease or high blood pressure;     ·intestinal problems;     ·Addison's disease;     ·thyroid disease;     ·asthma or lung disease; or     ·difficulty urinating or have an enlarged prostate.

· You may not be able to take S-T Forte 2, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

· S-T Forte 2 is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take S-T Forte 2 without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

· It is not known whether S-T Forte 2 passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

· If you are over 60 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from S-T Forte 2. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of the medication.

 

How should I take S-T Forte 2?

· Take S-T Forte 2 exactly as directed. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Shake the liquid form of S-T Forte 2 well before measuring a dose. To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the suspension with a dose-measuring spoon, dropper, or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

· Do not mix the suspension with any other liquid before taking it. Mixing it with another liquid may change the way the medication is absorbed in the body.

· S-T Forte 2 can be taken with food if stomach upset occurs.

· Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of this medication can cause serious harm.

· Hydrocodone may be habit forming. Physical and/or psychological dependence can occur, and withdrawal effects are possible if the medication is stopped suddenly after prolonged or high-dose treatment. Do not stop taking S-T Forte 2 suddenly without first talking to your doctor if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce the dose.

· Store S-T Forte 2 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 S-T Forte 2 overdose may include severe drowsiness, dizziness, headache, seizures, dry mouth, cold and clammy skin, flushing, large pupils, nausea, vomiting, difficulty or decreased breathing, blue colored skin, and unconsciousness.

 

What should I avoid while taking S-T Forte 2?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. S-T Forte 2 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 S-T Forte 2.

 

What are the possible side effects of S-T Forte 2?

· If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking S-T Forte 2 and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:     ·an 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 S-T Forte 2 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; or     ·itching.

· Hydrocodone may be habit forming. Physical and/or psychological dependence can occur, and withdrawal effects are possible if the medication is stopped suddenly after prolonged or high-dose treatment. Do not stop taking S-T Forte 2 suddenly without first talking to your doctor if you have been taking it continuously for more than 5 to 7 days. Your doctor may want to gradually reduce the dose.

· 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 S-T Forte 2?

· Do not take other over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy, diet, or sleep aids while taking S-T Forte 2 without first talking to your doctor or pharmacist. Other medications may also contain chlorpheniramine, hydrocodone, or other similar drugs. You may accidentally take too much of these medicines.

· S-T Forte 2 may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, other antihistamines, pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Dangerous sedation, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur if S-T Forte 2 is taken with any of these medications.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with S-T Forte 2. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

 

Where can I get more information?

· Your pharmacist has additional information about S-T Forte 2 written for health professionals that you may read.

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