Febrex Syp.

FEBREX SYP. by INDOCO REMEDIES LTD is a medication primarily used to relieve pain and reduce fever. There are variants of Febrex Syrup, with the base product containing Paracetamol, and another variant, Febrex Plus Syrup, which is a combination medication. This description focuses on Febrex Syrup containing only Paracetamol.

Name

• Common Name: Febrex Syrup, Paracetamol syrup
• Brand Name: Febrex Syrup (manufactured by Indoco Remedies Ltd)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Paracetamol (Acetaminophen).
  • Available in strengths such as 125mg/5ml and 250mg/5ml.

Uses

Febrex Syrup is primarily prescribed for:

• Pain Relief: Effective in treating mild to moderate pain, including headaches, toothaches, body aches, muscle ache, arthritis, backache, and menstrual cramps.
• Fever Reduction: Helps to lower high body temperature (fever), including fever associated with the common cold and post-immunization pyrexia.
• Cold and Flu Symptoms: Provides relief from symptoms like fever, body aches, and headaches associated with colds and flu.

Dosage and Administration

• Administration: For oral use. Shake the bottle well before use and use a proper measuring cup or spoon for accurate dosing.
• Typical Dosage Guidance (Pediatric):
  • Children 1-3 years: 1 teaspoonful (5 ml), 2-3 times a day.
  • Children 3-7 years: 1-2 teaspoonfuls, 2-3 times a day.
  • Children 7-12 years: 2 teaspoonfuls, 2-3 times a day.
• General Pediatric Guidance: 10 to 15 mg/kg dose every 4 to 6 hours, not exceeding 5 doses within 24 hours.
• It can be taken with or without food; if stomach upset occurs, it is advisable to take it with food.
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Side Effects

Febrex Syrup is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects may occur:

• Common Side Effects: Indigestion, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, itching, dry mouth, decreased appetite, mouth ulcer, gastric problems, dizziness, and abdominal discomfort.
• Serious Side Effects (Rare): Allergic reactions (skin rashes, itching, blisters), blood-related problems (e.g., thrombocytopenia, anemia), and liver or kidney damage (hepatotoxicity, renal tubular necrosis). Overdosing can lead to severe liver damage.

Precautions

• Paracetamol Overdose: Avoid concomitant use with other medicines containing paracetamol to prevent overdose and potential liver damage.
• Liver and Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with severe liver or kidney disease. Dose adjustments may be necessary for kidney conditions.
• Allergies: Do not use if there is a known hypersensitivity to paracetamol or any other ingredients.
• Chronic Alcohol Use: Chronic excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of liver toxicity.
• Diabetic Patients: The syrup may be sugar-based; caution is advised for diabetic patients.
• Persistent Symptoms: If pain or fever persists, consult a physician.

Storage

• Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight.
• Maintain storage temperature at or below 25°C or below 30ºC.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Febrex Syrup, manufactured by Indoco Remedies Ltd., is a medication primarily used to relieve symptoms of the common cold, allergies, and fever. There are different formulations, with "Febrex Plus Syrup" being a common combination product. This FAQ focuses on Febrex Plus Syrup, which contains Paracetamol (Acetaminophen), Phenylephrine, and Chlorpheniramine Maleate.

1. What is Febrex Syrup used for?

Febrex Plus Syrup is primarily used to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold, hay fever (allergic rhinitis), and other upper respiratory allergies. These symptoms include a blocked nose, runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, congestion or stuffiness, headache, body ache, sore throat, and fever. It can also be used as an adjunct with antibiotics for conditions like sinusitis, tonsillitis, and otitis media.

2. How does Febrex Syrup work?

Febrex Plus Syrup combines three active ingredients:

• Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): An analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). It works by blocking the production of certain chemical messengers called prostaglandins in the brain that are responsible for causing pain and fever, and by promoting heat loss from the body.
• Phenylephrine: A decongestant that narrows the small blood vessels in the nasal passages. This action reduces swelling and congestion, making it easier to breathe.
• Chlorpheniramine Maleate: An antiallergic (antihistamine) that blocks the action of histamine, a substance in the body responsible for allergy symptoms like runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing.

3. What is the usual dosage of Febrex Syrup?

The dosage of Febrex Syrup varies based on the patient's age, body weight, and the severity of their condition. For children, typical dosages include:

• 2-6 years: 5 ml (1 teaspoon) 2-3 times a day.
• 6-12 years: 10 ml (2 teaspoons) 2-3 times a day. For adults and children over 12 years, the typical dosage is 10 ml every 4-6 hours as needed, not exceeding 5 doses in 24 hours. It is crucial to use a proper measuring spoon or cup, shake the bottle well before use, and follow the dose and duration advised by your doctor.

4. What are the possible side effects of Febrex Syrup?

Common side effects may include drowsiness or sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, dry mouth, headache, and dizziness. In some cases, particularly in children, restlessness or excitability may occur. More serious but rare side effects can include skin rashes, allergic reactions (such as facial swelling or breathing difficulties), increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and liver or kidney damage with overdose or prolonged use. If side effects persist or worsen, consult a doctor.

5. Is Febrex Syrup safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Febrex Plus Syrup is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. The components of the syrup may pass into breast milk. If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, you should discuss all potential risks and benefits with your doctor before taking this medicine.

6. Can Febrex Syrup be taken with other medications?

Febrex Plus Syrup can interact with other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines your child is taking to avoid harmful interactions. Do not combine Febrex Syrup with other cold and flu medicines or painkillers that contain paracetamol, as this can lead to an overdose and potential liver damage. Interactions may also occur with antihypertensive medications, antidepressants, ergot alkaloids, Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs), beta-blockers, warfarin, certain cholesterol-lowering medicines, and some antibacterials. Alcohol should be avoided as it can increase drowsiness and the risk of liver damage.

7. What precautions should be taken while using Febrex Syrup?

• Do not exceed the prescribed dose or duration of treatment.
• Inform your doctor if you or your child has any pre-existing medical conditions, including liver or kidney disease, heart problems (such as high blood pressure or other cardiovascular diseases), diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, glaucoma, asthma, epilepsy, or an enlarged prostate gland.
• Febrex Plus Syrup may cause drowsiness, so avoid activities requiring mental alertness like driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
• This syrup is sugar-based, so diabetic patients should use it with caution and consult their doctor.
• It is generally not recommended for infants under a certain age (e.g., less than 2 months or 2 years, depending on the specific product variant), without consulting a doctor.

8. What happens if a dose of Febrex Syrup is missed?

If you miss a dose of Febrex Syrup, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If a child vomits within 30 minutes of taking the medicine, the same dose can be repeated, but not if it's already close to the time for the next dose.

9. How should Febrex Syrup be stored?

Febrex Syrup should be stored at room temperature, ideally at or below 25°C, in a dry place. Keep it away from direct heat, light, and sunlight, and ensure it is kept out of the reach and sight of children. Do not freeze the syrup.