Duohist DH Side Effects

Generic name: chlorpheniramine / dihydrocodeine / phenylephrine

Note: This document contains side effect information about chlorpheniramine / dihydrocodeine / phenylephrine. Some of the dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Duohist DH.

Some side effects of Duohist DH may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.

For the Consumer

Applies to chlorpheniramine / dihydrocodeine / phenylephrine: oral liquid, oral syrup

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking chlorpheniramine, dihydrocodeine, and phenylephrine and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

• confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behavior.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chlorpheniramine, dihydrocodeine, and phenylephrine and talk to your doctor if you experience

• dizziness, drowsiness, or sleepiness;

• restlessness or irritability;

• blurred vision;

• constipation;

• dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, or decreased appetite;

• muscle twitches;

• sweating;

• itching;

• decreased urination;

• increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Dihydrocodeine is habit forming. It is possible become physically and/or psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if chlorpheniramine, dihydrocodeine, and phenylephrine is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to chlorpheniramine / dihydrocodeine / phenylephrine: oral liquid, oral syrup

General

General side effects including light-headedness, dizziness, drowsiness, headache, fatigue, and sedation have been among the most frequently reported with opioid use. Confusion, abdominal pain, lassitude, giddiness, increased irritability or excitement (especially in children) have been reported. Hallucinations, severe narcosis, and vivid dreams have been reported rarely.

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects including nausea, vomiting, and constipation have been among the most frequently reported with opioid use. Diarrhea, dry mouth, indigestion, anorexia, spasm of biliary tract have been reported.

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects including sweating, pruritus, and skin reactions have been among the most frequently reported with opioid use. Flushing has been reported.

Other

Symptoms of dihydrocodeine withdrawal consist of irritability, restlessness, insomnia, diaphoresis, anxiety, and palpitations.

Other side effects of dihydrocodeine have included psychological dependence, physical dependence, and tolerance have been reported to develop upon repeated administration.

Renal

Renal side effects including granulomatous interstitial nephritis and acute renal failure have been reported rarely during dihydrocodeine administration.

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects including orthostatic hypotension and cardiac palpitations have been reported.

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects including respiratory depression have been reported.

Ocular

Ocular side effects including miosis and blurred vision have been reported.

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects including urinary retention have been reported.

Hypersensitivity

Hypersensitivity side effects including anaphylactoid reactions have been reported rarely.

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