Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough

Generic name: chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, and phenylephrine [ klor-feh-NEER-a-meen, dex-troe-meh-THOR-fan, and-feh-nill-EH-frin ]
Brand names: Balamine DM, Ed A-Hist DM, Gencontuss, Giltuss Allergy Plus, Giltuss Children's Allergy Plus, ... show all 14 brands NoHist DM, Phenagil-CH, Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough, Balamine DM, Ed A-Hist DM, Gencontuss, Giltuss Allergy Plus, Giltuss Children's Allergy Plus, NoHist DM
Drug class: Upper respiratory combinations

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 23, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough?

Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough 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.

Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough 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.

Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough may cause serious side effects. Stop using Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough and call your doctor at once if you have:

• dizziness, nervousness, sleep problems (insomnia); or

• cough or stuffy nose that goes away and then comes back, or lasts more than 7 days.

Common side effects of Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough may include:

• drowsiness; or

• agitation (especially in children).

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.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Do not use Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough 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

Do not use Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough 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, and tranylcypromine. Wait at least 14 days after stopping an MAO inhibitor before you take this medicine.

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

• a chronic cough, or a cough with mucus;

• breathing problems such as asthma or COPD;

• high blood pressure, heart disease;

• glaucoma;

• urination problems due to an enlarged prostate;

• diabetes;

• a thyroid disorder; or

• if you recently used alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers, or any other oral nasal decongestant or stimulant.

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

Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 6 years old without medical advice.

How should I take Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough more than recommended on the label. Cold or cough medicine is only for short-term use.

Your dose needs may change if you switch to a different brand, strength, or form of this medicine. Avoid medication errors by using exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Follow all directions when giving this medicine to a child. Do not use the medicine to make a child sleepy. Misuse of this medicine may cause death in very young children.

Measure liquid medicine with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the liquid medicine bottle tightly closed when not in use.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed 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 Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough?

Drinking alcohol with Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough 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 taking other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.

What other drugs will affect Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Cough?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicines that can cause drowsiness (such as opioid medication, sleep medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed here.

Further 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.

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

Medical Disclaimer

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