Alex Cough Lozenges Tab (sugar Free)

ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE)

Alex Cough Lozenges Sugar Free, manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd, is an antitussive medicine formulated to relieve dry cough.

• Name: Alex Cough Lozenges Sugar Free
• Composition: Each lozenge contains Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg).
• Uses:
  • Primarily used for the treatment of dry (non-productive) cough.
  • Helps suppress the cough reflex by reducing the activity of the cough center in the brain.
  • Provides symptomatic relief from coughs caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, such as due to a cold or inhaled irritants.
  • It is generally prescribed for short-term treatment and is not intended for chronic coughs or those caused by smoking, emphysema, or asthma.
• Dosage and Administration:
  • Take as advised by your doctor or whenever necessary.
  • Do not handle the lozenges with wet hands.
  • Place the lozenge in the mouth and allow it to dissolve slowly; do not chew or swallow.
  • Can be taken with or without food, but taking it at a fixed time may be beneficial.
  • Drink plenty of fluids while on treatment to help loosen congestion and lubricate the throat.
• Side Effects:
  • Common: Sleepiness (drowsiness), dizziness, confusion, and nausea.
  • Other reported: Unsteadiness, excitement, difficulty in breathing, sickness, abdominal discomfort, rashes, and allergic reactions.
  • Serious (overdose symptoms): Drowsiness, dizziness, unconsciousness, difficulty in breathing, vomiting, seizures, or a fast heartbeat.
• Precautions:
  • Allergies: Do not take if you are allergic to dextromethorphan or any other ingredients of this medicine.
  • Alcohol: Caution is advised; avoid consuming alcohol as it may cause serious effects.
  • Pregnancy: May be unsafe; consult your doctor to weigh the benefits against potential risks.
  • Breastfeeding: Probably safe to use, but consult your doctor. Limited human data suggests no significant risk to the baby.
  • Driving/Operating Machinery: Avoid driving or activities requiring mental focus due to potential dizziness and drowsiness.
  • Kidney Disease: Generally safe if prescribed, but dose adjustment and regular monitoring may be required.
  • Liver Disease: Use with caution; dose adjustment may be needed. Not recommended in severe liver disease.
  • Drug Interactions:
    • Avoid use with or within 14 days of taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (e.g., phenelzine, escitalopram, paroxetine, sertraline) due to risk of serious complications.
    • Use with caution with certain anti-allergic medicines and medicines for mental illness.
    • Quinidine (used for irregular heart rhythm) can increase the effect of this medicine; concomitant use should be avoided.
  • Other Conditions: Not recommended for children under 4 years of age. Exercise caution in patients at risk of respiratory failure or with a history of seizures. Avoid smoking as it may worsen symptoms.
• Storage: Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

What is ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) used for?

ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) is an antitussive medicine primarily used for the short-term treatment of dry (non-productive) cough. It helps relieve coughing caused by conditions such as the common cold and flu. It is not intended for chronic coughs or coughs associated with smoking, emphysema, or asthma.

How does ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) work?

This medicine contains Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (5mg) as its active ingredient. Dextromethorphan acts as a cough suppressant by working on the cough center or receptor in the brain to reduce the urge to cough.

What is the usual dosage for ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE)?

The dosage should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Allow the lozenge to dissolve slowly in your mouth; do not chew or swallow it. It can be taken with or without food, but it is often recommended to take it at a fixed time for better adherence. The duration of use is typically short-term until symptoms clear up. If you have specific dosage instructions, such as 1 tablet up to 4 times daily for 7 days (for common cold), follow your doctor's advice.

What are the possible side effects of ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE)?

Common side effects may include sleepiness, drowsiness, dizziness, excitation, mental confusion, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and rashes. If these effects bother you or become severe, consult your doctor. In rare cases or with overdose, more serious symptoms like difficulty breathing, vomiting, seizures, or a fast heartbeat can occur.

Is ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby, and limited human data is available. Your doctor will assess the benefits against potential risks before prescribing it during pregnancy. Breastfeeding: While some limited human data suggests it is probably safe, other sources advise caution and state it may be unsafe. It is generally recommended to consult your doctor to discuss the risks and benefits before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

Can ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) be taken with other medications?

ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) should not be taken with certain medications. It is contraindicated with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) and Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) due to the risk of serious complications, including Serotonin Syndrome; a gap of at least 14 days is recommended after stopping MAOIs before taking this medicine. Caution is advised with other medicines that act on the brain, some anti-allergic medicines, and quinidine. You can generally take it safely with benzonatate, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, pseudoephedrine, guaifenesin, and Tamiflu. However, use caution with codeine or diphenhydramine as it may increase drowsiness. Always inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE)?

Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to dextromethorphan or any other ingredients. It is not recommended for children under 4 to 6 years of age. Exercise caution if you have respiratory disorders like asthma or COPD, liver disease, or kidney disease (dose adjustment may be needed). Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can worsen side effects like drowsiness. Since it can cause dizziness and drowsiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Drink plenty of fluids while on this medication. Inform your doctor if your cough persists for more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or headache, as these could indicate a more serious condition.

What happens if a dose of ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your 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.

How should ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) be stored?

Store ALEX COUGH LOZENGES TAB (SUGAR FREE) below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets.