Certuss: Oral tablet, biphasic release

What is this medicine?

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

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They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

-chronic cough
-taking MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate
-an unusual or allergic reaction to carbetapentane, guaifenesin, or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

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Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years of age for selected conditions, precautions do apply. Do not give this medicine to children 6 years of age or younger.

What if I miss a dose?

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If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

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Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

-MAOIs like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, and Parnate

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

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Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 5 days or if they get worse. If you have a high fever, skin rash, lasting headache, or sore throat, see your doctor.

Drink several glasses of water each day.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Tell your doctor that you are taking this medicine before you have any tests of your urine done.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

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Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-breathing problems
-fever, back pain
-seizures
-trouble passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

-diarrhea
-drowsy, dizziness
-headache
-nausea, vomiting
-stomach upset