Codeine / Dexchlorpheniramine / Phenylephrine Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 30, 2024.

Applies to codeine / dexchlorpheniramine / phenylephrine: oral syrup.

Serious side effects

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:

• Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash; hives; itching; red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever; wheezing; tightness in the chest or throat; trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking; unusual hoarseness; or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Very bad dizziness or passing out.
• Chest pain or pressure or passing out.
• Trouble breathing, slow breathing, or shallow breathing.
• Noisy breathing.
• Feeling very sleepy.
• Feeling confused.
• A heartbeat that does not feel normal.
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there).
• Mood changes.
• Seizures.
• Very bad belly pain.
• Very bad headache.
• Trouble passing urine.
• Shakiness.
• Change in eyesight.
• Very upset stomach or throwing up.
• Very bad constipation.
• Feeling very tired or weak.

Other side effects

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of these side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

• Dizziness.
• Feeling nervous and excitable.
• Not able to sleep.
• Feeling sleepy.
• Constipation.
• Upset stomach or throwing up.
• Sweating a lot.
• Feeling tired or weak.

These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.

For healthcare professionals

Applies to codeine/dexchlorpheniramine/phenylephrine: oral liquid.

Cardiovascular adverse events

• Frequency not reported: Hypotension, palpitations, tachycardia, extra systoles

Dermatologic

• Frequency not reported: Urticaria, drug rash, photosensitivity, pruritus

Gastrointestinal

• Frequency not reported: Epigastric distress, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation

Genitourinary

• Frequency not reported: Urinary frequency, difficult urination, urinary retention, early menses

Hypersensitivity

• Frequency not reported: Anaphylactic shock, excessive perspiration, chills

Nervous system

• Frequency not reported: Sedation, dizziness, sleepiness, disturbed coordination, paresthesias, neuritis, tinnitus, convulsions

Ocular

• Frequency not reported: Blurred vision, diplopia

Other

• Frequency not reported: Vertigo, fatigue, acute labyrinthitis

Psychiatric

• Frequency not reported: Confusion, restlessness, excitation, nervousness, tremor, irritability, insomnia, euphoria, hysteria

Respiratory

• Frequency not reported: Thickening of bronchial secretions, tightness of chest, wheezing, nasal stuffiness, and dryness of mouth, nose and throat

See also:

Further information

Codeine/dexchlorpheniramine/phenylephrine side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer