chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone, Tussionex (cont.)

Pharmacy Author:

Eni Williams, PharmD, PhD

Eni Williams, PharmD, PhD

Dr. Eni Williams graduated from Creighton University in 1988 with a B.S. degree in pharmacy and a Doctor of Pharmacy from Howard University in 1994. She also obtained a Ph.D. in Public Policy in 2009 at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

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Medical and Pharmacy Editor:

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD

Jay W. Marks, MD, is a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist. He graduated from Yale University School of Medicine and trained in internal medicine and gastroenterology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

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SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequent side effects of chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone include lightheadedness, dizziness, sedation, nausea, vomiting, disturbed coordination, and drying and thickening of oral and other respiratory secretions. Other side effects include dyspepsia (indigestion), constipation, spasm of the ureter (which can lead to difficulty urinating), palpitations, increased heart rate, confusion, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness, irritability, blurred vision, double vision, and tremor.

Hydrocodone can depress breathing, and should be used with caution in elderly, debilitated patients, and in patients with serious lung disease. Hydrocodone can impair thinking and the physical abilities required for driving or operating machinery. Hydrocodone may be habit forming. Mental and physical dependence can occur but are unlikely when used for short-term relief of pain.

Reference: FDA Prescribing Information

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.