Cold Medicine

FDA Drug Information • Also known as: Cold Medicine

Brand Names
Cold Medicine
Route
ORAL
Dosage Form
TABLET
Product Type
HUMAN OTC DRUG

What Is Cold Medicine Used For?

Use(s) temporarily relieves minor aches and pains headaches nasal congestion sinus congestion & pressure runny nose sneezing

Dosage and Administration

Directions Do not use more than directed Adults and children 12 years of age and older : take 2 tablets every 4 to 6 hours Do not take more than 10 tablets in 24 hours Children under 12 years of age : do not use this product in children under 12 years of age; this will provide more than the recommended dose (overdose) and may cause liver damage.

Warnings and Precautions

Warnings Liver warning: This product contains acetaminophen. Severe liver damage may occur if you take more than 10 tablets in 24 hours, which is the maximum daily amount with other drugs containing acetaminophen 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product. Allergy alert: Acetaminophen may cause severe skin reactions. Symptoms may include: skin reddening blisters rash If a skin reaction occurs, stop use and seek medical help right away. Do not use if you are allergic to acetaminophen more than 10 days unless directed by a doctor if you are now taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (certain drugs for depression, psychiatric, or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease), or for 2 weeks after stopping the MAOI drug. If you do not know if your prescription drug contains an MAOI, ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking this product with any other drug containing acetaminophen (prescription or nonprescription). If you are not sure whether a drug contains acetaminophen, ask a doctor or pharmacist. Ask a doctor before use if you have liver disease heart disease glaucoma high blood pressure thyroid disease diabetes trouble urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland a breathing problem such as emphysema or chronic bronchitis Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if are taking the blood thinning drug warfarin are taking sedatives or tranquilizers When using this product do not use more than directed excitability may occur, especially in children may cause drowsiness alcohol, sedatives, and tranquilizers may increase drowsiness avoid alcoholic drinks be careful when driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery Stop use and ask a doctor if redness or swelling is present new symptoms occur you get nervous, dizzy, or sleepless pain or nasal congestion gets worse or lasts for more than 7 days fever gets worse or lasts for more than 3 days Pregnancy/Breastfeeding If pregnant or breast-feeding, ask a health professional before use. Keep out of reach of children Overdose warning: Taking more than the recommended dose (overdose) may cause liver damage. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away. Quick medical attention is critical for adults as well as for children even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms.

About This Information

This drug information is sourced from FDA-approved labeling via the openFDA database. It is intended for educational and reference purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making decisions about medication. Drug information may be updated by the FDA; check with your pharmacist for the most current information.

What are side effects?

Side effects are unwanted reactions that can occur when taking a medication. They range from mild (headache, nausea) to severe (allergic reactions, organ damage). Not everyone experiences side effects, and severity varies. Report any concerning side effects to your doctor.

What are drug interactions?

Drug interactions occur when a medication is affected by another drug, food, or supplement. Interactions can make medications less effective or cause dangerous side effects. Always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take.