Tussionex

Do not take Tussionex if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to hydrocodone or chlorpheniramine. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Special warnings about Tussionex

Tussionex contains a mild narcotic that can cause dependence and tolerance when the drug is used for several weeks. However, it is unlikely that dependence will develop when Tussionex is used for the short-term treatment of a cough.

Like all narcotics, Tussionex may produce slowed or irregular breathing. If you have lung disease or a breathing disorder, use this medication cautiously.

Use Tussionex with care if you have the eye condition known as narrow-angle glaucoma, asthma, an enlarged prostate gland, urinary difficulties, an intestinal disorder, liver or kidney disease, an underactive thyroid gland, or Addison's disease (a disorder of the adrenal glands), or if you have recently suffered a head injury.

Extra caution should be used when giving Tussionex to the elderly and those in a weakened condition.

Remember that Tussionex can cause drowsiness.

Narcotics can cause intestinal blockage or mask a severe abdominal condition.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Tussionex

Tussionex may increase the effects of alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication.

If Tussionex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Tussionex with the following:

• Antispasmodic medications such as Bentyl and Cogentin
• Major tranquilizers such as Thorazine and Compazine
• MAO inhibitor drugs (antidepressant drugs such as Nardil and Parnate)
• Medications for anxiety such as Xanax and Valium
• Medications for depression such as Elavil and Prozac
• Other antihistamines such as Benadryl
• Other narcotics such as Percocet and Demerol

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The safety of Tussionex during pregnancy has not been adequately studied. However, babies born to mothers who have been taking narcotics regularly before delivery will be born addicted. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. Tussionex may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may recommend that you stop breastfeeding until your treatment with Tussionex is finished.