Uses

A combination cold product used for symptomatic relief of the common cold and flu, providing antipyretic and analgesic effects (paracetamol), cough suppression (pholcodine), and nasal decongestion (pseudoephedrine).

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients taking MAOIs or within 14 days of MAOI use, patients with severe hypertension or coronary artery disease, hyperthyroidism, and those with hypersensitivity to any component. Pholcodine may cause dependency; avoid in patients with respiratory depression.

Side effects

May cause drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, nervousness, and insomnia. Pseudoephedrine may elevate blood pressure and heart rate. Risk of hepatotoxicity with excessive paracetamol dosing.

Warnings

Avoid exceeding the recommended dose of paracetamol. Patients with hypertension, diabetes, enlarged prostate, or glaucoma should use with caution. Pholcodine may cause dependency with prolonged use. Avoid in children under 12 years unless specified.

How it works

Paracetamol acts centrally to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, reducing fever and pain. Pholcodine is an opioid derivative that suppresses cough reflex centrally. Pseudoephedrine stimulates alpha and beta adrenergic receptors to cause nasal vasoconstriction and reduce mucosal edema.

Storage

Store at room temperature below 25°C, away from moisture and light.