Tanafed DP - Talk Medical

Generic Name: dexchlorpheniramine and pseudoephedrine

Brands: Tanafed DP

What is the most important information I should know about Tanafed DP?

· Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Tanafed DP 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 Tanafed DP.

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

What is Tanafed DP?

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

· Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant. It constricts (shrinks) blood vessels (veins and arteries). This reduces the blood flow to certain areas and allows nasal and respiratory (breathing) passages to open up.

· Tanafed DP is used to treat nasal congestion and sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses) associated with allergies, hay fever, and the common cold.

· Tanafed DP may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Tanafed DP?

· Do not take Tanafed DP if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects.

· Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have ·kidney disease, ·liver disease, ·diabetes, ·glaucoma, ·heart disease or high blood pressure, ·thyroid disease, ·a stomach ulcer or a stomach obstruction, ·asthma, emphysema or chronic bronchitis, or ·difficulty urinating or have an enlarged prostate.

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

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

· Tanafed DP passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take this medication 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 Tanafed DP. You may require a lower dose of this medication.

· Read the package label for directions or consult your doctor or pharmacist before treating a child with this medication. Children are more susceptible than adults to the effects of medicines and may have unusual reactions.

How should I take Tanafed DP?

· Take Tanafed DP exactly as directed. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

· Shake the suspension well before measuring a dose.

· To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid forms of Tanafed DP 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 than is recommended. An overdose of this medication can cause serious harm.

· Do not take Tanafed DP for longer than 7 days in a row. If your symptoms do not improve, if they get worse, or if you have a fever, talk to your doctor.

· Store Tanafed DP 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.

· Symptoms of a Tanafed DP overdose include a dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, nausea, vomiting, and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking Tanafed DP?

· Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Tanafed DP.

What are the possible side effects of Tanafed DP?

· Serious side effects are unlikely to occur. If you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, face, or tongue, or hives) from this medication, stop taking Tanafed DP and seek emergency medical attention.

· Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Tanafed DP and talk to your doctor or try another similar medication if you experience ·dryness of the eyes, nose, or mouth; ·drowsiness or dizziness; ·blurred vision; ·difficulty urinating; or ·excitation in children.

· 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 Tanafed DP?

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

· Tanafed DP 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 Tanafed DP is taken with any of these medications.

· Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Tanafed DP. 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 Tanafed DP written for health professionals that you may read.

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