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Altussan (cough and cold preparation)

Altussan is a brand name of a combination of 4 active ingredients: guaifenesin, oxeladin citrate, phenylpropanolamine HCl, and chlorphenamine maleate.

Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps loosen up phlegm. Oxeladin citrate is a cough suppressant for dry cough. Phenylpropanolamine HCl is an indirect-acting sympathomimetic and nasal decongestant.

Uses

What is Altussan used for?

It is used to treat coughs and colds.

How should I take Altussan?

Read the directions on the packaging for complete information. Check the label and expiration date.

For oral dosage forms, swallow it whole without chewing, crushing, or dissolving it in liquid. Take it with or without meals.

How do I store Altussan?

Store this product at room temperature away from direct light and moisture. To prevent drug damage, you should not store it in the bathroom or the freezer. 

There may be different brands of this drug that may have different storage needs. So, it is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush this product down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Additionally, it is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & Warnings

What should I know before using Altussan?

Before using this drug, tell your doctor if you are/have:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Taking any other medicines. This includes any prescription, OTC, and herbal remedies.
  • An allergy to any of the ingredients of this product.
  • Any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, there isn’t enough information about the safety of using this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking any medication.

Side Effects

What side effects can occur from Altussan?

Like all drugs, this product may have side effects. If they occur, side effects are generally mild and resolve once treatment is finished or the dose is lowered. Some reported side effects include:

  • Skin rash
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Kidney stones

However, not everyone experiences these side effects. In addition, some people may experience other side effects. So, if you have any concerns about a side effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Altussan?

This medication may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. 

To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. 

Drugs with known interactions:

  • Amantadine
  • Antipsychotics
  • Antivirals
  • Bromocriptine
  • Caffeine
  • Diphenhydramine
  • Disulfiram
  • Methotrimeprazine
  • NSAIDs
  • Secnidazole

If you experience an adverse drug interaction, inform your doctor immediately to reevaluate your treatment plan. Approaches include dose adjustment, drug substitution, or ending therapy.

Does food or alcohol interact with Altussan?

This drug may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Altussan?

This drug may interact with underlying conditions. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. Therefore, it is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. Therefore, you should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.

What is the dose for an adult?

Take 2 tablets every 4 hours or as directed by your physician.

What is the dose for a child?

There is no established pediatric dose. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Altussan available?

Altussan is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

  • Capsule containing guaifenesin 100 mg, oxeladin citrate 10 mg, phenylpropanolamine HCl 12.5 mg, and chlorphenamine maleate 1 mg
  • Syrup containing (per 5 mL) Guaifenesin 100 mg, sodium citrate 160 mg, oxeladin citrate 5 mg

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Altussan, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.

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Disclaimer

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

Altussan https://www.mims.com/philippines/drug/info/altussan Accessed July 27, 2021

Guaifenesin (Oral Route) https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/guaifenesin-oral-route/description/drg-20068720 Accessed July 27, 2021

Chlorpheniramine (chlorpheniramine maleate) https://www.knowyourotcs.org/ingredient/chlorpheniramine/ Accessed July 27, 2021

Phenylpropanolamine Hydrochloride. Lexi-Drugs. Lexicomp. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Riverwoods, IL. Accessed July 27, 2021. http://online.lexi.com

Oxeladin Citrate. Lexi-Drugs. Lexicomp. Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. Riverwoods, IL. Accessed July 27, 2021. http://online.lexi.com

Current Version

07/28/2021

Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD

Updated by: Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD


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