chlorpheniramine/codeine/pseudoephedrine (Dihistine DH, Novahistine DH)

Introduction

DEA-controlled substance: class 4.

Indications

• temporary relief of cough associated with minor throat or bronchial irritation
• nasal congestion due to common cold, allergic rhinitis, or sinusitis Cantraindications:
• severe hypertension
• coronary artery disease
• concurrent MAO inhibitor therapy

Dosage

• adults & chldren > 12 years:
  • 10 mL every 4-6 hours PRN
  • max: 40 mL/24 hours
• children 6-12 years:
  • 2.5-5 mL every 4-6 hours PRN
  • max: 4 doses/day
• children 2-6 years:
  • 1.25-2.5 mL every 4-6 hours PRN
  • max: 4 doses/day

Liquid: chlorpheniramine maleate 2 mg, pseudoephedrine HCl 30 mg codeine phosphate 10 mg (120 mL, 240 mL)

Adverse effects

• not common (1-10%)
  • sedation, dizziness, drowsiness, increased intracranial pressure, constipation, hypotension, biliary spasm, urinary tract spasm, dependence

More general terms

• Ear nose throat combination

Components

• chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton)
• codeine
• pseudoephedrine (Sudafed, Afrin, Drixoral, SudoGest)