chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone

What is chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?

Tussionex is a combination of an antihistamine that blocks allergic reactions and reduces the production of mucus (chlorpheniramine), and a narcotic that relieves pain and cough (hydrocodone). Tussionex is a liquid that slowly releases the chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone after it is ingested.

What brand names are available for chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone?

Tussionex, TussiCaps, Tussionex Pennkinetic, Vituz

Is chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone available as a generic drug?

Yes

Do I need a prescription for chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone?

Yes

What are the side effects of chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone?

The most frequent side effects of chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone include:

Other important side effects include:

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.

SLIDESHOW

A Cold or The Flu? How to Tell the Difference See Slideshow

What is the dosage for chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone?

The usual dose is 2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon) to 5 ml (1 teaspoonful) twice daily. The suspension should be shaken prior to each use.

Which drugs or supplements interact with chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone?

Chlorpheniramine (although not generally sedating itself) and hydrocodone both add to the sedating effects of alcohol and other drugs that can cause sedation such as the benzodiazepine class of anti-anxiety drugs (for example, diazepam [Valium], lorazepam [Ativan], clonazepam [Klonopin], alprazolam [Xanax]); the narcotic class of pain medications and its derivatives (for example, oxycodone and acetaminophen [Percocet], hydrocodone/acetaminophen [Vicodin], Dilaudid, codeine, propoxyphene [Darvon]); the tricyclic class of antidepressants (for example, amitriptyline [Elavil, Endep], imipramine [Tofranil], desipramine [Norpramin]); the antipsychotic class of drugs (for example, thioridazine (Mellaril), triflupromazine (Stelazine)]; and certain antihypertensive medications (for example, clonidine [Catapres], propranolol [Inderal]).

Chlorpheniramine also can intensify the drying effects (due to decreased production of mucus) of other medications with anticholinergic properties (for example, dicyclomine [Bentyl], bethanechol [Urecholine], Probanthine).

Is chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Antihistamines are typically not recommended for use in pregnancy, especially during the third trimester, because of a risk of seizures in the fetus. The risk for depressed breathing in the newborn infant when the mother ingests hydrocodone is greatest in premature infants who are particularly sensitive to the effects of hydrocodone. Physicians may decide to prescribe chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone during pregnancy if the benefits to the mother are deemed to outweigh the risks to the fetus and newborn.

Chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone both are secreted in breast milk. Owing to the risk in infants of antihistamines causing hyperexcitability and even seizures, particularly in newborns and premature infants, the combination of chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone is not recommended for use in nursing mothers.

What else should I know about chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone?

What preparations of chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone are available?

Liquid suspension. Each teaspoonful (5 ml) contains chlorpheniramine, 8 mg and hydrocodone, 10 mg.

How should I keep chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone stored?

The suspension should be stored at room temperature, between 15-30 C (59-86 F).

Summary

Chlorpheniramine and hydrocodone (Tussionex) is a drug prescribed for the treatment of cough and congestion associated with allergies, colds, and other lung infections. Side effects, drug interactions, dosage, warnings and precautions, and pregnancy information should be reviewed prior to taking any medication.

Treatment & Diagnosis

Medications & Supplements

Prevention & Wellness

Subscribe to MedicineNet's General Health Newsletter

By clicking Submit, I agree to the MedicineNet's Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet's subscriptions at any time.

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

FDA Logo

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.

References
Medically reviewed by John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP; Board Certified Emergency Medicine

REFERENCE:

FDA Prescribing Information