GENERIC NAME: POTASSIUM IODIDE/XANTHINE/DECONGESTANT/BARBITURATE - ORAL
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Potassium iodide has been used as an expectorant which may help to loosen mucus. Xanthines widen air passages in the lungs to make breathing easier. Decongestants relieve nasal stuffiness. Barbiturates are added for their calming effect. This combination medication is used to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold, allergies, hay fever, sinusitis and other respiratory illnesses.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication as prescribed. Be sure to follow instructions closely. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. This medication is best taken with a full glass of water (8 oz or 240 ml) after a meal or snack. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this medication.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, stomach upset, loss of appetite, nausea, drowsiness or anxiety may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: chest pain, rapid pulse, palpitations, skin rash, high blood pressure, dizziness, flushing, tremors, nervousness, mental confusion. Notify your doctor if breathing difficulty continues or becomes worse. Use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness if this medication makes you drowsy. Avoid alcoholic beverages which can add to the drowsiness. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease (e.g., asthma, emphysema), high blood pressure, thyroid disease, history of ulcers or seizures, glaucoma, drug dependency, any allergies. Smoking can reduce the effects of this medication. Inform your doctor if you smoke before taking this. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this medication. Since small amounts of this medication are found in breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
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.
- Electrolytes - Read about blood electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicorbonate) and the effects of electrolyte imbalances like kidney failure, low blood pressure, hypokalemia, and hyperkalemia.
- Common Cold - Get the facts on common cold causes (virus), symptoms, treatment, how long a cold lasts, how it's transmitted, how to avoid colds and home remedies for this contagious illness.
- Sinus Infection - Learn about sinus infections and inflammation of the sinuses (also known as sinusitis) with information written by doctors for patients. Includes causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and complications of sinus infection.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index