Brand name:

TheraFlu Flu & Congestion

Pronounced: THAIR-uh-flew

Generic ingredients: Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan hydrobromide, Guaifenesin, Pseudoephedrine hydrochloride

What this drug is used for

This TheraFlu formulation relieves the minor aches and pains of colds and flu, such as headache and minor sore throat pain. It reduces fever, unclogs stuffy nose and sinuses, combats chest congestion, and relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation.

This product comes in powder form, wrapped in foil packets.

How should you take this medication?

For adults and children 12 years and over, the usual dosage is 1 packet every 6 hours. Do not take more than 4 doses a day. Dissolve the powder in 6 ounces of hot water and sip while hot. For children under 12, consult your doctor.

Do not take this medication if...

Unless your doctor approves, do not take this product if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or an enlarged prostate gland.

Also check with your doctor before using this product for the type of chronic cough that results from smoking or asthma, or for a cough that brings up lots of phlegm.

Special warnings about this medication

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

Do not take this product for more than 10 days for pain or 3 days for fever without your doctor's approval. If your pain or fever won't go away or gets worse, or if you develop new symptoms or notice any redness or swelling, check with your doctor; you might have a serious condition.

You should also check with your doctor immediately if you have a severe sore throat that lasts for more than 2 days, or if your sore throat is accompanied or followed by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

Likewise, call your doctor if you have a cough that lasts for more than 7 days or tends to come back, or a cough accompanied by rash, lasting headache, and fever.

If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks a day, check with your doctor about taking this product. The acetaminophen it contains can cause liver damage.

If you must avoid phenylalanine, be aware that this product contains it.

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, such as the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate.