Antihistamines and Decongestants (Systemic)
Proper Use of This MedicineTake this medicine only as directed. Do not take more
of it and do not take it more often than recommended on the label, unless
otherwise directed by your doctor. To do so may increase the chance of side
effects
.
If this medicine irritates your stomach, you may take it with food or a
glass of water or milk, to lessen the irritation.
For patients taking the extended-release capsule or
tablet form of this medicine
:
-
Swallow it whole.
-
Do not crush, break, or chew before swallowing.
-
If the capsule is too large to swallow, you may mix the contents
of the capsule with applesauce, jelly, honey, or syrup and swallow without
chewing.
Dosing - There is a large variety of antihistamine and
decongestant combination products on the market. Some products are for use
in adults only, while others may be used in children. If you have any questions
about this, check with your health care professional. The dose of antihistamines and decongestants will be different for different
products. The number of capsules or tablets or teaspoonfuls of liquid or granules
that you take depends on the strengths of the medicines. Also, the number of doses you take each day and the time between doses depend on
whether you are taking a short-acting or long-acting form of antihistamine
and decongestant
. Follow your doctor's orders
if this medicine was prescribed. Or, follow the directions on the box if you
are buying this medicine without a prescription
.
Missed dose - If you are taking this medicine regularly and you
miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for
your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
Do not double doses.
Storage - To store this medicine:
-
Keep out of the reach of children.
-
Store away from heat and direct light.
-
Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other
damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
-
Keep the liquid form of this medicine from freezing.
-
Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure
that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.
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