ACTIFED Tablets

What is ACTIFED

ACTIFED is a combination medication used primarily to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold, allergies, and hay fever. It is formulated as a tablet and each unit contains two active ingredients: Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride and Triprolidine Hydrochloride.

• Pseudoephedrine HCl: A decongestant that works by shrinking the blood vessels in the nasal passages, thereby reducing nasal congestion and sinus pressure.
• Triprolidine HCl: An antihistamine that blocks histamine receptors to relieve sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose.

ACTIFED is commonly used to treat:

• Nasal congestion due to cold or sinusitis
• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
• Upper respiratory tract allergies

It is marketed in a blister pack containing 24 tablets and is available over-the-counter in many regions, though it may be restricted in others due to the pseudoephedrine content.

How to use ACTIFED

Using ACTIFED Tablets correctly is crucial to ensure symptom relief and avoid potential side effects. It is important to follow the healthcare provider’s instructions or the label directions.

• Route: Oral – swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
• Frequency: Typically, 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Do not exceed 4 doses in 24 hours unless directed by a physician.
• Timing: Take with or without food. If gastrointestinal upset occurs, take with food or milk.

Important Considerations:

• Do not crush or chew the tablet.
• Avoid alcohol as it may increase drowsiness caused by Triprolidine.
• Monitor for symptoms like increased heart rate or dizziness, and discontinue use if severe adverse effects occur.
• Keep track of all other medications being used to prevent interactions.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next dose. Do not double up doses.

Mode of Action ACTIFED

ACTIFED works through the synergistic effects of its two active components—Pseudoephedrine and Triprolidine—targeting both nasal congestion and histamine-related allergy symptoms.

• Pseudoephedrine HCl:
  • Acts as a sympathomimetic agent.
  • Stimulates alpha-adrenergic receptors in the respiratory mucosa.
  • Causes vasoconstriction, reducing blood flow to nasal passages.
  • Relieves nasal stuffiness and sinus congestion effectively.
• Triprolidine HCl:
  • First-generation antihistamine (H1 receptor antagonist).
  • Prevents histamine from binding to receptors in the body.
  • Reduces symptoms like sneezing, itching, and watery eyes.
  • May cause drowsiness due to CNS penetration.

Together, these ingredients address both the allergic and decongestant aspects of upper respiratory tract infections and allergies, providing comprehensive symptom control.

ACTIFED Interactions ACTIFED

Drug interactions may affect how ACTIFED works or increase the risk of serious side effects. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medicines you take.

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs):
  • Severe hypertension or hypertensive crisis may occur if taken with pseudoephedrine.
  • Do not use ACTIFED within 14 days of stopping an MAOI.
• Other sympathomimetics:
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular side effects (e.g., palpitations, high blood pressure).
• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline):
  • May enhance anticholinergic effects like dry mouth and blurred vision.
• Antihypertensives (e.g., beta-blockers):
  • Effectiveness of antihypertensive therapy may be reduced.
• Alcohol and CNS depressants:
  • May increase drowsiness caused by Triprolidine.

Always read the label and consult a healthcare provider if you are taking other medications or have chronic medical conditions.

Dosage of ACTIFED

The appropriate dosage of ACTIFED Tablets depends on the patient’s age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Below is a general guideline:

• Adults and children over 12 years: 1 tablet every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not to exceed 4 doses in 24 hours.
• Children 6 to 12 years: Dosage should be determined by a physician; typically, ½ tablet every 6 hours may be used under medical supervision.
• Children under 6 years: Not recommended unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Dosage Considerations:

• Do not exceed the recommended dose due to the risk of serious side effects (e.g., high blood pressure, drowsiness).
• Use for the shortest duration necessary to control symptoms.
• Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen.

Patients with liver or kidney impairment, cardiovascular disease, or thyroid disorders should consult a physician before use, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.

Possible side effects of ACTIFED

Like all medicines, ACTIFED may cause side effects, though not everyone will experience them. Side effects can vary in severity and frequency.

• Common side effects:
  • Drowsiness or sedation (due to Triprolidine)
  • Dry mouth, nose, or throat
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Restlessness, especially in children
  • Insomnia or trouble sleeping
• Less common but serious effects:
  • Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching/swelling)
  • High blood pressure
  • Hallucinations or agitation (especially with overdose)

If you experience any signs of a serious allergic reaction or unusual side effects, seek medical attention immediately. Elderly individuals may be more sensitive to anticholinergic and CNS effects.

ACTIFED Contraindications ACTIFED

ACTIFED should not be used in certain medical situations. It is important to review these contraindications before starting the medication:

• Known hypersensitivity to pseudoephedrine, triprolidine, or any excipient in the formulation.
• Use with or within 14 days of MAO inhibitors due to risk of hypertensive crisis.
• Severe hypertension or severe coronary artery disease: Risk of exacerbating cardiovascular symptoms.
• Narrow-angle glaucoma: Triprolidine may worsen intraocular pressure.
• Severe urinary retention or prostatic hypertrophy: May be aggravated by the anticholinergic effects.
• Children under 6 years of age: Safety and efficacy are not established.

Caution is advised in patients with hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, or those taking CNS stimulants or sedatives. Always consult a doctor before use if you have chronic conditions.

Storage of ACTIFED

Proper storage of ACTIFED is important to maintain its effectiveness and safety.

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F). Do not freeze.
• Environment: Keep in a dry place away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Original packaging: Store in the original blister pack to protect from light and contamination.
• Keep out of reach of children: Accidental ingestion by children can be dangerous.
• Do not use after expiration date: Check the expiry date printed on the blister.
• Disposal: Do not flush unused tablets down the toilet. Dispose via a medication take-back program or per pharmacist’s instructions.

Improper storage can degrade the active ingredients, reducing therapeutic effects or increasing the risk of side effects.