Brand name:

Actifed Cold & Allergy

Pronounced: AK-tuh-fed

Generic ingredients: Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride, Triprolidine hydrochloride

Other brand name: Sudafed Sinus Nighttime

What this drug is used for

These products temporarily relieves the stuffy nose that often results from a common cold. It can also be used for hay fever and other allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, and itchy, watery eyes.

How should you take this medication?

Doses may be taken every 4 to 6 hours. Do not take more than 4 doses each 24 hours.

* ADULTS
For adults and children 12 and over, the usual dose is 1 tablet.

* CHILDREN
For children 6 to 12, the usual dose is half a tablet. For children under 6, consult a doctor.

* STORAGE
Store at room temperature in a dry place and protect from light.

Do not take this medication if...

Check with your doctor before taking these products if you have diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, breathing problems such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis, high pressure within the eye (glaucoma), or an enlarged prostate gland.

Special warnings about this medication

If you become nervous or dizzy, or have trouble sleeping while taking this medication, stop using it and call your doctor. Be aware that these products may cause excitability, especially in children.

If you do not feel better in 7 days, or if you have a fever, stop taking this medication and see your doctor.

These products can cause drowsiness. Be especially careful when operating machinery or driving.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

Do not use these products within 2 weeks of taking a drug classified as an MAO inhibitor, including the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.

If you are taking a tranquilizer such as Valium or Xanax, or a sleep aid such as Halcion or Seconal, you may suffer increased drowsiness when taking these products. For the same reason, avoid alcohol while taking this medication.