Why is this drug
prescribed?
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Entex LA is used to treat
bronchitis, the common cold, sinus inflammation, nasal
congestion, and sore throat.
Entex LA is a combination of two
medications, phenylpropanolamine (a decongestant) and
guaifenesin (an expectorant), specially formulated to
deliver prolonged action. Phenylpropanolamine helps
reduce congestion in the nasal passages, while
guaifenesin breaks up mucus in the lower respiratory
tract, making it easier to clear the passages.
Most important fact about this
drug
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Certain medical conditions can
affect your use of Entex LA. If you have heart disease,
high blood pressure, or diabetes, make sure the doctor
knows about it. The phenylpropanolamine in Entex LA can
raise blood pressure and speed up the heart, and can put
you at a greater risk of heart or blood-vessel disease if
you are diabetic.
How should you take this
medication?
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You may break Entex LA tablets in
half to make them easier to swallow, but you must not
chew or crush them.
---If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If
it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you
missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2
doses at once.
---Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature in a
tightly closed container, away from light.
What side effects may
occur?
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Side effects cannot be anticipated.
If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor
as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it
is safe for you to continue taking this type of
medication.
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Side effects may include:
Anxiety, convulsions, depression, difficulty
breathing, difficulty urinating (in men with an
enlarged prostate), hallucinations, headache,
inability to sleep or difficulty sleeping, increased
heart beat, irritability, irritated stomach, nausea,
nervousness, paleness, palpitations, restlessness,
tremor, weakness, vomiting
Why should this drug not be
prescribed?
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You should not use Entex LA if you
have severe high blood pressure, are sensitive to other
stimulating drugs such as Dristan Decongestant, or take
antidepressant medications known as MAO inhibitors,
including Nardil and Parnate.
Special warnings about this
medication
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Use Entex LA cautiously if you have
any of the following conditions:
Diabetes
Glaucoma (excessive pressure in the eyes)
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid gland activity)
Prostate enlargement
Possible food and drug interactions
when taking this medication
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Do not take Entex LA if you are
taking a medication classified as an MAO inhibitor,
including the antidepressants Nardil and Parnate. Avoid
other stimulating drugs such as Proventil, Ventolin, and
many decongestants. Interactions can also occur with the
following:
Bromocriptine (Parlodel)
Mecamylamine (Inversine)
Methyldopa (Aldomet)
Reserpine (Diupres, Hydropres)
Special information if you are
pregnant or breastfeeding
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The effects of Entex LA during
pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are
pregnant or plan to become pregnant, notify your doctor
immediately. It is not known whether Entex LA appears in
breast milk. If this medication is essential to your
health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue
breastfeeding until treatment with this drug is
finished.
Recommended dosage
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ADULTS AND CHILDREN 12 YEARS AND
OLDER
The usual dosage is 1 tablet every
12 hours.
CHILDREN 6 TO 12 YEARS
OLD
The usual dosage is one-half tablet
every 12 hours.
The safety and effectiveness of
Entex LA have not been established in children under the
age of 6.
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Any medication taken in excess can
have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose,
seek medical help immediately.
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Symptoms of Entex LA overdose may include:
Coma, convulsions, high blood pressure
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