Acetaminophen / Chlorpheniramine / Dextromethorphan / Phenylephrine / Ascorbic Acid

What it is and how it works

Paracetamol provides analgesia and antipyresis; chlorphenamine is a sedating H1-antihistamine reducing rhinorrhoea and sneezing; dextromethorphan is a centrally acting cough suppressant; phenylephrine is an alpha-1 adrenergic agonist that causes nasal decongestion; ascorbic acid is vitamin C.

Indications

Short-term symptomatic relief of common cold and influenza symptoms including fever, aches, nasal congestion, rhinorrhoea and dry cough.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to any component; severe hypertension or coronary disease; use with or within 14 days of MAO inhibitors; severe hepatic impairment.

Warnings and precautions

Do not combine with other paracetamol-containing products because of the risk of hepatotoxicity in overdose. Causes drowsiness; avoid alcohol and driving. Use with caution in hypertension, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy and in the elderly; dextromethorphan may contribute to serotonin syndrome with serotonergic drugs.

Pregnancy

Generally avoided in pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, because of the decongestant component.

Storage and supply

Store below 25 °C in a dry place, protected from light.

Source: reference summary prepared from the EU SmPC/EPAR, BNF and WHO Model Formulary. The approved product information in Iran governs.