Robitussin Cough & Allergy Uses, Side Effects & Warnings - Drugs.com

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# Robitussin Cough & Allergy

Generic name: chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine [ klor-feh-NEER-a-meen, dex-troe-meh-THOR-fan, and-feh-nill-EH-frin ]
Brand names: Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough, Balamine DM, Ed A-Hist DM, Gencontuss, Giltuss Allergy Plus, NoHist DM, Robitussin Cough & Allergy
Drug class: Upper respiratory combinations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Apr 7, 2022. Written by Cerner Multum.

## What is Robitussin Cough & Allergy?

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine. Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. Phenylephrine is a decongestant.

Robitussin Cough & Allergy is a combination medicine used to treat cough, runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, itching, and watery eyes caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

Robitussin Cough & Allergy will not treat a cough that is caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.

Robitussin Cough & Allergy may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

## Warnings

Do not use this medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.

## Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

- asthma or COPD, cough with mucus;

- a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines);

- high blood pressure, heart disease;

- liver or kidney disease;

- glaucoma;

- enlarged prostate or urination problems;

- overactive thyroid; or

- pheochromocytoma (an adrenal gland tumor).

Do not use Robitussin Cough & Allergy if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

## Related/similar drugs

Bromfed DM, brompheniramine / dextromethorphan / pseudoephedrine, Vicks NyQuil Severe Cold & Flu, Mucinex D, Dimetapp Children's Cold & Cough, Vicks Dayquil Cold & Flu Relief

## How should I take Robitussin Cough & Allergy?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or cough medicine is only for short-term use until your symptoms clear up.

Always follow directions on the medicine label about giving cough or cold medicine to a child. Do not use the medicine only to make a child sleepy. Death can occur from the misuse of cough or cold medicines in very young children.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Dissolve the effervescent tablets in at least 4 ounces of water. Stir and drink this mixture right away. Add a little more water to the glass, swirl gently and drink right away.

Do not take for longer than 7 days in a row. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches.

If you need surgery or medical tests, tell the surgeon or doctor ahead of time if you have taken this medicine within the past few days.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Detailed Robitussin Cough & Allergy dosage information

## What happens if I miss a dose?

Since Robitussin Cough & Allergy is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

## What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

## What should I avoid while taking Robitussin Cough & Allergy?

Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. This medicine can decrease sweating and you may be more prone to heat stroke.

## Robitussin Cough & Allergy side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

This medicine may cause serious side effects. Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

- severe anxiety, tremor, seizure (convulsions);

- fast or pounding heartbeats;

- painful or difficult urination;

- pale skin, weakness; or

- severe headache, pounding in your neck or ears.

Common side effects of Robitussin Cough & Allergy may include:

- dizziness, drowsiness;

- blurred vision;

- dry mouth, nose, or throat;

- increased or decreased urination;

- nausea, loss of appetite, diarrhea;

- sleep problems (insomnia); or

- nervousness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Robitussin Cough & Allergy side effects (more detail)

## What other drugs will affect Robitussin Cough & Allergy?

Avoid using this medicine with other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing (such as opioid medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other medication, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this medication guide.

Robitussin Cough & Allergy drug interactions (more detail)

## Where can I get more information?

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

## More about Robitussin Cough & Allergy (chlorpheniramine / dextromethorphan / phenylephrine)

- Check interactions
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: upper respiratory combinations
- En español

### Patient resources

#### Other brands

Ed A-Hist DM, NoHist DM, Giltuss Allergy Plus, Balamine DM, ... +3 more

### Related treatment guides

- Cough and Nasal Congestion

## Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2023 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 6.01.