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Dimetapp® Cold & Cough

Written by Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD · Pharmacology


Updated Dec 03, 2020

Uses

What is Dimetapp® Cold & Cough used for?

Dimetapp® Cold & Cough is commonly used for treating headache, fever, body aches, cough, runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.

It contains three main active ingredients:

  • Brompheniramine maleate(antihistamine)
  • Dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant)
  • Phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant)

Dimetapp® Cold & Cough is not used for treating cough in patients with asthma, or emphysema or have a history of smoking.

How should I take Dimetapp® Cold & Cough?

This medication is available as an oral syrup. The oral syrup should be taken by mouth using the included measuring cup. Do not use a household spoon to measure the dose.

How do I store Dimetapp® Cold & Cough?

This drug should be stored at room temperature (20-25°C) and be protected from light and moisture. Do not allow this product to freeze. Always check the label before using this product. For safety, keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Do not use if the printed expiration date has passed, the product seal has been broken, or the product has changed in color, odor, or consistency.

Do not dispose of this product by pouring it down the drain, toilet, or into the environment. Ask your pharmacist regarding the proper way and location of disposal.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Dimetapp® Cold & Cough?

Before using this medication, inform your doctor if:

  • You have ever had an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients of this medication
  • You have a history of allergy to other medications, food, or other substances
  • You are taking other medications
  • You have underlying health conditions, such as asthma, cardiovascular disease, or are being treated with antidepressants

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Dimetapp® Cold & Cough is pregnancy risk category C, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using Dimetapp® Cold & Cough during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, as determined by your doctor.

This medication may be excreted in breast milk. This drug should be used while breastfeeding only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the child, as determined by your doctor.

FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

  • A=No risk
  • B=No risk in some studies
  • C=There may be some risk
  • D=Positive evidence of risk
  • X=Contraindicated
  • N=Unknown

Side effects

What side effects can occur from Dimetapp® Cold & Cough?

All drugs have the potential to elicit side effects even with normal use. Many side effects are dose-related and will resolve when it is adjusted or at the end of therapy.

Potential side effects while using this drug include:

  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Blurred vision
  • Drowsiness
  • Headache
  • Seizure (convulsions)
  • Increased heart rate
  • Confusion
  • Hallucinations
  • Slow or shallow breathing
  • Tremors
  • Decreased urine output

You may experience some, none, or other side effects not mentioned above. If you have any concerns about a side effect or it becomes bothersome, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Dimetapp® Cold & Cough?

This drug may interact with other medications. 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 inform your doctor and pharmacist.

Known drugs and their interactions with Dimetapp® Cold & Cough include:

  • Antihistamines
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
  • Medications that contain alcohol as an ingredient

Does food or alcohol interact with Dimetapp® Cold & Cough?

Dimetapp® Cold & Cough does not have any known food interactions and can be taken with or without meals.

Do not take this medication with alcohol as it may increase the severity of drowsiness and CNS depression. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking this drug or after consuming alcohol.

Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding food-drug interactions.

What health conditions may interact with Dimetapp® Cold & Cough?

This drug should be taken with caution if you have any of the following conditions or risk factors:

  • Heart disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Thyroid disease
  • Diabetes
  • Trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland
  • Glaucoma
  • A productive cough that occurs with too much phlegm (mucus)
  • A breathing problem or persistent or chronic cough that lasts such as occurs with:
    • smoking
    • asthma
    • chronic bronchitis
    • emphysema

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using Dimetapp® Cold & Cough.

What is the dose of Dimetapp® Cold & Cough for an adult?

For adults and children aged 12 years and over:

Take 20 mL every 4 hours. Do not take more than 6 doses per day. Only measure the medication using the dosage cup provided.

What is the dose of Dimetapp® Cold & Cough for a child?

For children 6 to 12 years:

Give 10 mL every 4 hours. Do not take more than 6 doses per day. Only measure the medication using the dosage cup provided.

For children under 6 years:

This drug is not recommended for use in children under 6 years and the recommended dose has not been established. Consult with a doctor or pharmacist for alternatives and more information.

How is Dimetapp® Cold & Cough available?

Dimetapp® Cold & Cough is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

  • Syrup, 4 fl. oz (118 mL) bottle with dosage cup

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 Dimetapp® Cold & Cough, 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.

Disclaimer

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

Written by

Stephanie Nera, RPh, PharmD

Pharmacology


Updated Dec 03, 2020

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