Generic name: Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Alka-Seltzer Plus Maximum Strength?
Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin is a combination medicine used to treat cough and chest congestion caused by allergies, the common cold, or the flu.
Dextromethorphan and guaifenesin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not take dextromethorphan and guaifenesin if you are allergic to it.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not use this medicine if you are using or 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.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:
This medicine may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
- a cough with mucus; or
- asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis.
How should I use Alka-Seltzer Plus Maximum Strength
Use Alka-Seltzer Plus Maximum Strength (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. 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.
Measure with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon). liquid medicine
Dissolve the in at least 4 ounces of water. Stir and drink right away. Add more water to the glass, swirl and drink. effervescent tablets
Sprinkle the directly onto your tongue and swallow right away. granules
Drink extra fluids to help loosen the congestion and lubricate your throat while you are taking this medicine.
Follow the storage instructions provided with this medicine. Your pharmacist can provide more information about how to store this medicine.
Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice. Follow all directions when giving this medicine to a child. Misuse of this medicine may cause death in very young children. Do not use the medicine to make a child sleepy.
You may need to shake the liquid before you measure a dose. Follow all directions on the label.
Swallow the whole and do not crush, chew, or break it. extended-release tablet
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches.
This medicine is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. use two doses at one time. Do not
Alka-Seltzer Plus Maximum Strength side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have : hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. signs of an allergic reaction
Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:
- mood changes;
- severe headache; or
- severe dizziness or anxiety, feeling like you might pass out.
- dizziness, drowsiness;
- sleep problems (insomnia);
- diarrhea; or
- feeling nervous, restless, anxious, or irritable.
Common side effects may include:
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.
What other drugs will affect Alka-Seltzer Plus Maximum Strength?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Drinking alcohol with this medicine can cause side effects.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking other cough or cold medicines that may contain similar ingredients.