Brand name:

Robitussin-CF

Pronounced: ROW-bi-TUSS-in

Generic ingredients: Dextromethorphan hydrobromide, Guaifenesin, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride

Other brand names: Robitussin Cold & Congestion, Robitussin Cough & Cold Infant Drops

What this drug is used for

These Robitussin products temporarily relieve cold symptoms such as stuffy nose and cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation. They also help loosen and thin bronchial mucus, making it easier to cough up.

Robitussin-CF comes as a liquid. Robitussin Cold & Congestion is available in softgel and caplet form. For small children, the same ingredients are available in Robitussin Cough & Cold Infant Drops.

How should you take this medication?

Doses can be repeated every 4 hours. Do not take more than 4 doses each 24 hours.

* ADULTS

For adults and children 12 years and over, the usual dose is 2 teaspoonfuls of Robitussin-CF or 2 Robitussin Cold & Congestion pills.

* CHILDREN

Age 6 to 12

The usual dose is 1 teaspoonful of Robitussin-CF or 1 Robitussin Cold & Congestion pill.

Age 2 to 6

The usual dose is half a teaspoonful of Robitussin-CF or 2.5 milliliters of the infant drops.

Under 2

Consult a doctor.

* STORAGE

Store all forms at room temperature.

Do not take this medication if...

Unless your doctor approves, do not take these products for the type of lasting cough that results from smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or for coughs that bring up large amounts of mucus. Also get the doctor's approval before taking these products if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or an enlarged prostate gland.

Special warnings about this medication

If you become dizzy or nervous, or have trouble sleeping, stop taking this medication and check with your doctor.

If your symptoms don't improve within 7 days or include a fever, check with your doctor. Also see your doctor if your cough tends to come back or is accompanied by a fever, rash, or lasting headache. A lingering cough could signal a serious condition.

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, such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.