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Dextromethorphan / phenylephrine / pyrilamine Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 17, 2020.

For the Consumer

Applies to dextromethorphan/phenylephrine/pyrilamine: oral liquid, oral suspension, oral suspension extended release, oral syrup, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet chewable extended release

Warning

Do not use this medicine if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, and tranylcypromine.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction while taking dextromethorphan/phenylephrine/pyrilamine: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using this medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:

  • severe dizziness or nervousness;

  • painful or difficult urination, little or no urinating;

  • fast or pounding heartbeats; or

  • a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.

Common side effects may include:

  • dizziness, drowsiness;

  • dry mouth, nose, or throat; or

  • feeling restless or excited (especially in children).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Managing side effects (general information)

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to dextromethorphan/phenylephrine/pyrilamine: oral liquid, oral suspension, oral suspension extended release, oral syrup, oral tablet chewable, oral tablet chewable extended release

Cardiovascular

Cardiovascular side effects including arrhythmias, hypertension, hypotension, and palpitations have been reported.[Ref]

Nervous system

Nervous system side effects including coordination disturbances, drowsiness, dysphoria, euphoria, headache, insomnia, irritability, nervousness, sedation, and seizures have been reported.[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects including photosensitivity, pruritus, rash, and urticaria have been reported.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects including constipation, diarrhea, epigastric discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and xerostomia have been reported.[Ref]

Genitourinary

Genitourinary side effects including difficult urination and urinary frequency have been reported.[Ref]

Hematologic

Hematologic side effects including agranulocytosis, hemolytic anemia, and thrombocytopenia have been reported.[Ref]

Musculoskeletal

Neuromuscular side effects including tremor and weakness have been reported.[Ref]

Ocular

Ocular side effects including visual disturbances have been reported.[Ref]

Respiratory

Respiratory side effects including shortness of breath and wheezing have been reported.[Ref]

References

1. "Product Information. Codal-DM Syrup (dextromethorphan / phenylephrine / pyrilamine)." Cypress Pharmaceutical Inc, Madison, MS.

2. "Product Information. Viravan-DM (dextromethorphan / phenylephrine / pyrilamine)." PediaMed Pharmaceuticals Inc, Exton, PA.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.

Medical Disclaimer