Today’s article is on a drug known as Dimetapp which is mainly used as a cold and allergy medication. There are many cold and allergy medications out there and many times, people do not know which one to go for, or which one is good among all these, as there are also fake and harmful drugs.
Quick Facts About Dimetapp
| A | B |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Dimetapp Cold & Allergy |
| Generic Name | Brompheniramine, Phenylephrine (often in combination with other active ingredients) |
| Manufacturer | Foundation Consumer Brands |
| History | Acquired by Pfizer in 2009, Foundation Consumer Brands in 2020 |
| Variants | Dimetapp DM (with dextromethorphan), Elixir, Colour Free Elixir |
| Drug Class | Upper respiratory combinations |
| Uses | Treats symptoms of the common cold, hay fever, seasonal allergies, including sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and itchy, watery eyes |
| Active Ingredients | Brompheniramine (antihistamine), Phenylephrine (decongestant) |
| Mechanism of Action | Brompheniramine works by blocking histamine receptors; Pseudoephedrine works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages |
| Effectiveness | Generally effective for temporary relief of nasal congestion and allergy symptoms |
| Formulations | Liquid, chewable tablets, tablets |
| Age Restriction | Typically for children over 6 years and adults (specific products for younger children available) |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Not a controlled substance |
| Notable Warnings | Do not use if you have taken an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. Not for children younger than 4 years old. Caution in patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid disorders, glaucoma. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women |
| Potential Side Effects | May include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, upset stomach, headache, nausea, nervousness |
| Drug Interactions | MAO inhibitors, other antihistamines, alcohol, sedatives, tranquilizers |
| Pregnancy Category | Category B (May cause harm to the fetus) |
| Breastfeeding | Not recommended; may slow breast milk production |
| Administration | Oral: can be taken with or without food |
| Availability | Widely available over-the-counter at pharmacies and grocery stores |
| Storage | Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light |
So, we will analyze Dimetapp since it is one of the cold and allergy drugs that is commonly used. If you are here, then you are here to find out whether Dimetapp is a good cold and allergy drug; Is it good for your body system? Will it be harmful to your child? How fast does it work? Any side effects? And so on.
Healthsoothe will answer all of these and even give in-depth details on what to know about Dimetapp.
So, we proceed.
About Dimetapp – What is it?
Dimetapp, which is commonly known as Dimetapp Cold & Allergy is a medication that is made from a combination of two substances; brompheniramine and phenylephrine.
Dimetapp belongs to a drug class known as upper respiratory combinations which are products that may contain one or more medicines, which relieve cough, act as decongestants or relieve allergy or hay fever symptoms.
Dimetapp also belongs to the Antihistamine + antitussive + sympathomimetic drug class.
Dimetapp is mainly for children aged 6–12 years of age and above, and it is normally prescribed by the doctor for colds, allergies, coughs, flu, and night-time congestion (nasal).
Constituents or Ingredients of Dimetapp
As mentioned earlier, Dimetapp is made up of two substances, which are:
- Brompheniramine: An antihistamine that reduces the effects of the natural chemical, histamine in the body. Histamine can produce symptoms of sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.
- Phenylephrine: A decongestant that shrinks blood vessels in the nasal passages. Dilated blood vessels can cause nasal congestion (stuffy nose).
Watch the video below to know more about what Dimetapp, along with its ingredients do in the human body:
How Does Dimetapp Work?
Dimetapp is usually prescribed by doctors for colds, allergies, and nasal congestion because it works by inducing an antihistamine effect to reduce histamine levels since histamine is responsible for symptoms of colds and allergies.
It also works to inhibit nasal congestion by shrinking dilated blood vessels in the nasal passages because dilated blood vessels can lead to nasal congestion.
Dimetapp Dosage – How to Use Dimetapp
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. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed.
Take this medication by mouth with or without food with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) or as directed by your doctor. This medication may be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs.
Use Dimetapp exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Cold medicine is usually taken only for a short time until your symptoms clear up.
Do not give Dimetapp Cold & Allergy to a child younger than 4 years old. Always ask a doctor before giving a cough or cold medicine to a child. Death can occur from the misuse of cough and cold medicines in very young children.
Measure Dimetapp Cold & Allergy with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
If you are using the liquid form, use a medication measuring device to carefully measure the prescribed dose. Do not use a household spoon. If your liquid form is a suspension, shake the bottle well before each dose.
If you are taking the extended-release capsules, swallow them whole. Do not crush or chew extended-release capsules or tablets. Doing so can release all of the drugs at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
Also, do not split extended-release tablets unless they have a score line and your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do so. Swallow the whole or split tablet without crushing or chewing.
Chewable forms of this medication should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing.1webmd If you are taking the powder, mix it thoroughly in the proper amount of liquid and stir well. Drink all of the liquid right away. Do not prepare a supply for future use.
The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to therapy. If you are taking this medication for allergy or hay fever symptoms, take it regularly in order to get the most benefit from it.
Improper use of this medication (abuse) may result in serious harm (such as brain damage, seizure, and death). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer time than directed.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash. If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken Dimetapp within the past few days. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Dosage Information for Dimetapp
Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Rhinitis
- For the liquid form: 20 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: 1 tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Usual Adult Dose for Nasal Congestion
- For the liquid form: 20 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: 1 tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Usual Adult Dose for Rhinitis
- For the liquid form: 20 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: 1 tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Usual Pediatric Dose for Allergic Rhinitis
Children aged 6 to under 12 years:
- For the liquid form: 10 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: One-half tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Children aged 12 years and older:
- For the liquid form: 20 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: 1 tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Usual Pediatric Dose for Nasal Congestion
Children aged 6 to under 12 years:
- For the liquid form: 10 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: One-half tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Children aged 12 years and older liquid:
- For the liquid form: 20 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: 1 tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Usual Pediatric Dose for Rhinitis
Children aged 6 to under 12 years:
- For the liquid form: 10 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: One-half tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
Children aged 12 years and older:
- For the liquid form: 20 mL every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
- For the tablet form: 1 tablet every 4 hours
Maximum dose: 6 doses per 24 hours
What Happens if You Miss the Dosage on Dimetapp, and What Do You Do After That?
If you are taking this product on a regular schedule and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
What Happens if You Overdose on Dimetapp, and What Do You Do After That?
If you or someone has overdosed on Dimetapp and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call the doctor or your emergency care provider number immediately. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away.
US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Symptoms of overdose may include agitation, confusion, flushing, hallucinations, large pupils, muscle twitching, and seizures. In children, excitement may occur first and may be followed by loss of coordination, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and seizures.
Benefits of Taking Dimetapp
Dimetapp is beneficial, as it is used to treat symptoms caused by the common cold, flu, allergies, hay fever, or other breathing illnesses (such as sinusitis, and bronchitis).
Dimetapp also acts as a cough suppressant that affects a certain part of the brain (cough center), reducing the urge to cough.
It helps relieve stuffy nose symptoms, and relieve watery eyes, itchy eyes/nose/throat, runny nose, and sneezing.
Side Effects of Taking Dimetapp
Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, upset stomach, nausea, constipation, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute. Dimetapp can dry up and thicken mucus in your lungs, making it more difficult to breathe and clear your lungs. To help prevent this effect, drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including mental/mood changes (such as confusion, hallucinations), ringing in the ears, shaking (tremors), trouble urinating, weakness, easy bruising/bleeding, fast/slow/irregular heartbeat, or seizure.
Dimetapp Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Taking certain MAO inhibitors with Dimetapp may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking isocarboxazid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, or tranylcypromine during treatment with this medication.
Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before and after treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.
Some products that may interact with this drug are: antihistamines applied to the skin (such as diphenhydramine cream, ointment, spray), antispasmodics (such as atropine, belladonna alkaloids), beta-blockers (such as metoprolol, atenolol), drugs for Parkinson's disease (including anticholinergics such as trihexyphenidyl), guanethidine, methyldopa, rolapitant, scopolamine, and tricyclic antidepressants (such as amitriptyline, and desipramine).
Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).
Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
Some products have ingredients that could affect your heart rate or blood pressure. Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products or diet aids).
This medication may interfere with certain medical/lab tests (such as brain scans for Parkinson's disease, and urine drug screening tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
Precautions to be Observed Before, During, and After Taking Dimetapp
There following are precautionary measures to be followed concerning the taking of Dimetapp:
- Before taking Dimetapp, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it;2drugs or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
- If your doctor has prescribed this medication, do not share it with others.
- Keep all regular medical and laboratory appointments.
- Do not take this product for several days before allergy testing because test results can be affected.
- 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 of 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 above).
- Ask the doctor or pharmacist about other ways to relieve cough and cold symptoms (such as drinking enough fluids, or using a humidifier or saline nose drops/spray).
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products that cause drowsiness such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, and cyclobenzaprine), or other antihistamines (such as cetirizine, and diphenhydramine).
- Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.
- Some products have ingredients that could affect your heart rate or blood pressure. Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products or diet aids).
- This medication may interfere with certain medical/lab tests (such as brain scans for Parkinson's disease, and urine drug screening tests), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.
- Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: breathing problems (such as asthma, emphysema), diabetes, a certain eye problem (glaucoma), heart problems, high blood pressure, kidney problems, liver disease, seizures, stomach/intestinal problems (such as ulcers, blockage), overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), urination problems (such as trouble urinating due to enlarged prostate, urinary retention).
- This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
- This medicine may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist regarding the safe use of this medicine.
- Liquid preparations of this product may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, or liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of this product.
- Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
- Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness, drowsiness, mental/mood changes, constipation, fast heartbeat, trouble urinating, or blood pressure changes. Dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion can increase the risk of falling.
- Children may be more sensitive to the effects of antihistamines. In young children, this medication may cause agitation/excitement instead of drowsiness.
- During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
- This medication may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
- If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken Dimetapp within the past few days.
- Store Dimetapp at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.
Is it Safe to Use Dimetapp, Especially in the Long Term?
Dimetapp is safe when taken as prescribed, but when not taken as prescribed, especially when on overdose, this could lead to agitation, confusion, flushing, hallucinations, large pupils, muscle twitching, and seizures.
In children, excitement may occur first and may be followed by loss of coordination, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and seizures.
So, Dimetapp should only be used only when prescribed, because even its drug interactions can lead to major complications because a doctor will have analyzed how the drug will react in your body system after making certain confirmations whether via testing or asking you so as to know whether the drug is good for you or your child.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Dimetapp Cold & Allergy will harm an unborn baby. Do not use Dimetapp Cold & Allergy without your doctor's advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether brompheniramine and phenylephrine pass into breast milk or if they could harm a nursing baby. Antihistamines and decongestants may also slow breast milk production. Do not use Dimetapp Cold & Allergy without your doctor's advice if you are breastfeeding a baby.
Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from Dimetapp Cold & Allergy.
Artificially sweetened liquid cold medicine may contain phenylalanine. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), check the medication label to see if the product contains phenylalanine.
How Long Do You Have to Take Dimetapp Before You See Improvements?
Dimetapp should clear off your symptoms in the space of 3 days to 7 days. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.
How Much Does Dimetapp cost?
The cost for Dimetapp Children's Cold & Cough oral liquid (1 mg-5 mg-2.5 mg/5 mL) is around $14 for a supply of 120 milliliters, depending on the pharmacy you visit. Quoted prices are for cash-paying customers and are not valid with insurance plans.
Where can I buy Dimetapp?
Dimetapp can be bought at your local pharmacy, hospitals, and online drug stores like CVS pharmacy, Walgreens, and Walmart. Dimetapp is also available on Amazon.
The Takeaway
Do not share Dimetapp with others. Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if you have a fever with a headache, cough, or skin rash.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time if you have taken Dimetapp within the past few days. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
I hope Healthsoothe answered any questions you had concerning Dimetapp.
Feel free to contact us at contact@healthsoothe.com if you have further questions to ask or if there’s anything you want to contribute or correct to this article.
You can always check our FAQs section below to know more about Dimetapp.
Frequently Asked Questions on Dimetapp
Why was Dimetapp taken off the market?
Dimetapp hasn’t been taken off the market. It’s just that the FDA warned that inexact dosing could lead to an overdose in children; GSK has not reported any adverse effects so far.
The recalled lots of Robitussin and Dimetapp were distributed nationwide between Feb. 5 and June 3 and carry the GSK and Pfizer brand names on their labels.
Is Dimetapp Still on the Market?
The Dimetapp Children's ND Non-Drowsy Allergy brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
Are Benadryl and Dimetapp the Same?
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine) is great for allergies, but curl up on the couch after taking it and get ready for a nap. Relieves congestion and allergy symptoms for kids. Dimetapp Cold & Allergy (Phenylephrine / Brompheniramine) is good for multiple nasal symptoms, but it can make you really drowsy.
Is Dimetapp Good for Children?
Can Dimetapp be Used for Adults?
Adults and children aged 12 years and up can use Dimetapp.
What Drug Class is Dimetapp?
Dimetapp belongs to the Antihistamine + antitussive + sympathomimetic drug class.
Does Dimetapp Make You Sleepy?
Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, blurred vision, upset stomach, nausea, constipation, or dry mouth/nose/throat may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
How Many Hours Does Dimetapp Last?
This medication comes in an oral (by mouth) liquid and is usually taken every 4 to 6 hours with or without food.
What is the Active Ingredient in Dimetapp?
Brompheniramine maleate and phenylephrine are the active ingredients of Dimetapp.
What Happens if You Take Too Much Dimetapp?
Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, sweating, stomach/abdominal pain, extreme tiredness, agitation, confusion, flushing, hallucinations, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, and seizures.
What is Another Name for Dimetapp?
Dimetapp is available under the following different brand names: Neo DM Suspension, Dimaphen DM, and Children's Dimetapp Cold & Cough.
How Many Dimetapp Can You Take?
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually every 12 or 24 hours, depending on the product or as directed by your doctor or the product package. Do not take more than 240 milligrams in a day.
Can You Take Dimetapp on an Empty Stomach?
Take the tablet, capsule, or liquid form by mouth with or without food. Follow the directions for dosing on the label, or take as directed by your doctor. Drink plenty of fluids when you use this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
How Many Days Can You Take Dimetapp for?
Adults should not take this product for more than a few days at a time except on medical advice. Children and adolescents 12 years and over should not use this product for more than 48 hours, except on medical advice. Dimetapp Multi-Symptom Cough Cold & Flu Liquid Caps should not be used during an acute asthma attack.
Can You Take Dimetapp Before Bed?
Avoid taking Dimetapp at bedtime if it makes you restless. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert. Some brands of this medicine may contain alcohol. Read the label carefully or ask your pharmacist so you know what is in your product.
Does Dimetapp Have Side Effects?
Drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth/nose/throat, headache, upset stomach, constipation, or trouble sleeping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Can You Take Dimetapp at Night?
Yes. It's fast‑acting and made to soothe the bothersome symptoms that cause kids to toss and turn at night, helping to quiet coughs and ease runny noses.
Does Dimetapp Break Up Mucus?
The fluid will help loosen the mucus in your lungs. This medication can be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. If you are using the liquid form, use a medication measuring device to carefully measure the prescribed dose.
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Additional resources and citations
- 1webmd
- 2drugs
The content is intended to augment, not replace, information provided by your clinician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Reading this information does not create or replace a doctor-patient relationship or consultation. If required, please contact your doctor or other health care provider to assist you to interpret any of this information, or in applying the information to your individual needs.