Acetaminophen Cold Non-Drowsy

This combination medication is used to temporarily treat cough, stuffy nose, body aches, and other symptoms (e.g., fever, headache, sore throat) caused by the common cold, flu, or other breathing illnesses (e.g., sinusitis, bronchitis). Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that affects a certain part of the brain (cough center), reducing the urge to cough. Decongestants help to relieve stuffy nose symptoms. This product also contains acetaminophen, a non-aspirin pain reliever and fever reducer.

This medication is usually not used for ongoing coughs from smoking, asthma, or other long-term breathing problems (e.g., emphysema), or for coughs with a lot of mucus, unless directed by your doctor.

Cough-and-cold products have not been shown to be safe or effective in children younger than 6 years. Therefore, do not use this product to treat cold symptoms in children younger than 6 years unless specifically directed by the doctor. Some products (such as long-acting tablets/capsules) are not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details about using your product safely.

These products do not cure or shorten the length of the common cold and may cause serious side effects. To decrease the risk for serious side effects, carefully follow all dosage directions. Do not use this product to make a child sleepy. Do not give other cough-and-cold medication that might contain the same or similar ingredients (see also Drug Interactions section). Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).

How to use Acetaminophen Cold Non-Drowsy

See also Warning section.

If you are taking the over-the-counter product, read all directions on the product package before taking this medication. If you have any questions, consult your pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food or as directed by your doctor. This medication can be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs.

If you are using a liquid form, carefully measure your prescribed dose using a medication-measuring device or spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If your liquid form is a suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose.

Chewable forms of this medication should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.

The dosage is based on your age. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than directed without your doctor's approval. Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (e.g., brain damage, seizure, death).

Tell your doctor if your condition persists for more than 1 week, if it worsens, or if it occurs with rash, persistent headache, or fever lasting more than 3 days. These may be symptoms of a serious medical problem and should be checked by a doctor.