Brand name:

Cheracol Plus

Pronounced: CHAIR-uh-call

Generic ingredients: Chlorpheniramine maleate, Dextromethorphan hydrobromide, Phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride

What this drug is used for

Cheracol Plus temporarily stops a cough and clears up head cold symptoms such as congestion and a runny nose.

How should you take this medication?

The usual dosage is 1 tablespoonful every 4 hours. Do not take more than 6 tablespoonfuls in 24 hours.

Do not take this medication if...

Unless your doctor approves, avoid Cheracol Plus if you have high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, high pressure within the eye (glaucoma), heart disease, an enlarged prostate gland, or thyroid disease.

If you cough a great deal because of smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if you bring up a great deal of mucus when you cough, do not take this product without your doctor's approval.

Do not give this product to children under 12.

Special warnings about this medication

If coughing or other symptoms last more than 7 days without getting better, or if you develop a high fever, stop taking this product and call your doctor.

Be aware that Cheracol Plus may cause over-excitement, especially in children.

This product can make you drowsy. While taking it, avoid driving or operating machinery.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking this medication

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

Because both can make you drowsy, avoid alcoholic beverages while taking Cheracol Plus.