Deconamine

Generic name: Chlorpheniramine and pseudoephedrine

What is Deconamine?

Deconamine is an antihistamine and decongestant used for the temporary relief of persistent runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion caused by upper respiratory infections (the common cold), sinus inflammation, or hay fever. It is also used to help clear nasal passages and shrink swollen membranes and to drain the sinuses and relieve sinus pressure.

What is the most important information I should know about Deconamine?

Use Deconamine with extreme caution if you have the eye condition called glaucoma, peptic ulcer or stomach obstructions, an enlarged prostate, or difficulty urinating.

Also use caution if you have bronchial asthma, emphysema, chronic lung disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or an overactive thyroid.

Deconamine may cause excitability, especially in children.

Who should not take Deconamine?

Do not use Deconamine if you have severe high blood pressure or severe heart disease, are taking an antidepressant drug known as an MAO inhibitor, or are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to antihistamines or decongestants.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Deconamine?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with this drug. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Deconamine Tablets

Adults and children over 12 years: The usual dosage is 1 tablet 3 or 4 times daily.

Deconamine Syrup

Adults and children over 12 years: The usual dose is 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls (5 to 10 milliliters) 3 or 4 times daily.

Children 6 to 12 years: The usual dose is one-half to 1 teaspoonful (2.5 to 5 milliliters) 3 or 4 times daily, not to exceed 4 teaspoonfuls in 24 hours.

Children 2 to 6 years: The usual dose is one-half teaspoonful (2.5 milliliters) 3 or 4 times daily, not to exceed 2 teaspoonfuls in 24 hours.

Children under 2 years: Use as directed by your doctor.

Deconamine SR Capsules

Adults and children over 12 years: The usual dose is 1 capsule every 12 hours.

Deconamine Chewable Tablets

Adults: The usual dose is 2 tablets 3 or 4 times a day.

Children 6 to 12 years: The usual dose is 1 tablet 3 or 4 times a day.

Children 2 to 6 years: The usual dose is half a tablet 3 or 4 times a day.

How should I take Deconamine?

If Deconamine makes you nervous or restless, or you have trouble sleeping, take the last dose of the day a few hours before you go to bed. Take Deconamine exactly as prescribed. Antihistamines can make your mouth and throat dry. It may help to suck on hard candy, chew gum, or melt bits of ice in your mouth.

What should I avoid while taking Deconamine?

Deconamine may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. You should not drive or operate machinery or participate in any activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how you react to Deconamine.

Alcohol increases the sedative effect of Deconamine. Avoid it while taking this medication.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Deconamine?

If Deconamine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either may be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Deconamine with the following: antidepressant drugs such as the MAO inhibitors phenelzine and tranylcypromine, asthma medications such as albuterol, bromocriptine, mecamylamine, methyldopa, narcotic pain killers such as meperidine and oxycodone, phenytoin, reserpine, sleep aids such as secobarbital and triazolam, or tranquilizers such as alprazolam and diazepam.

What are the possible side effects of Deconamine?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug. The most common side effect is mild to moderate drowsiness.

Can I receive Deconamine if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Deconamine during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately. Deconamine appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Deconamine is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Deconamine?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Deconamine?

Store at room temperature.