ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS Syrup

What is ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS is an oral syrup formulated to relieve symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, particularly those involving cough, nasal congestion, and allergic components. It contains three active ingredients: Pseudoephedrine Hydrochloride (a decongestant), Triprolidine Hydrochloride (an antihistamine), and Codeine Phosphate (an opioid cough suppressant).

• Pseudoephedrine HCl: Shrinks swollen nasal mucosa, alleviating nasal stuffiness and sinus pressure.
• Triprolidine HCl: Reduces allergic symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, and watery eyes by blocking histamine.
• Codeine Phosphate: Acts centrally to suppress the cough reflex by working on the medullary cough center.

This combination is particularly useful for:

• Dry, irritating, or persistent coughs
• Cold and flu-related symptoms
• Allergic rhinitis with cough and congestion

Note: Codeine is a controlled substance in many countries due to its opioid nature and potential for misuse or dependence.

How to use ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

Proper administration ensures safe and effective symptom relief when using ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS.

• Route: Oral – measure the syrup using a calibrated spoon or measuring cup.
• Recommended Timing: Usually taken every 4 to 6 hours as needed. Avoid more than 4 doses in 24 hours.
• With or without food: Can be taken with or without food, although food may help reduce stomach upset.

Important Usage Instructions:

• Shake the bottle well before each use.
• Always use a proper measuring device; do not estimate with a kitchen spoon.
• Avoid operating heavy machinery or driving, as codeine and triprolidine may cause drowsiness.
• Avoid alcohol or other CNS depressants while taking this medication.

Missed Dose: Take as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.

This medicine should not be used for prolonged periods without medical supervision due to the presence of codeine.

Mode of Action ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS works by targeting different mechanisms involved in upper respiratory symptoms.

• Pseudoephedrine HCl:
  • Acts on alpha-adrenergic receptors in the nasal mucosa.
  • Induces vasoconstriction, reducing nasal congestion and sinus swelling.
• Triprolidine HCl:
  • H1 receptor antagonist that reduces the effects of histamine.
  • Relieves sneezing, itching, rhinorrhea, and watery eyes.
• Codeine Phosphate:
  • Acts on the central nervous system (CNS).
  • Binds to opioid receptors in the medullary cough center, suppressing the urge to cough.

By combining these actions, the syrup provides comprehensive relief from cough, nasal congestion, and allergic symptoms, making it especially effective for dry or irritating coughs accompanied by cold or allergic rhinitis.

ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS Interactions ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS may interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing therapeutic effectiveness.

• MAO Inhibitors:
  • Risk of hypertensive crisis when used with pseudoephedrine.
  • Do not use within 14 days of MAOI treatment.
• Other CNS depressants:
  • Alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates may enhance sedation and respiratory depression from codeine and triprolidine.
• Tricyclic antidepressants:
  • May potentiate the anticholinergic and CNS-depressant effects.
• Antihypertensives:
  • Pseudoephedrine may reduce the efficacy of beta-blockers or other blood pressure medications.
• Other opioids or cough suppressants:
  • Increases risk of cumulative sedation or respiratory depression.

Advice: Always inform your healthcare provider of all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.

Dosage of ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

Dosage depends on the patient's age, medical status, and response to treatment. Do not exceed the recommended dose, especially due to the presence of codeine.

• Adults and children over 12 years: 5 ml every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 4 doses (20 ml) in 24 hours.
• Children 6 to 12 years: 2.5 ml every 4 to 6 hours. Maximum 4 doses per day. Only under medical advice.
• Children under 6 years: Not recommended.

Dosage Considerations:

• Do not use for more than 5 consecutive days without consulting a healthcare provider.
• Seek medical attention if cough persists beyond one week or is accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache.
• Adjustments may be required in elderly patients or those with hepatic/renal impairment.

Overdose Warning: Taking more than the recommended dose can lead to serious complications including respiratory depression, CNS depression, or even death, especially in children.

Possible side effects of ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

While ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS is generally well tolerated when used as directed, it may cause some side effects.

• Common side effects:
  • Drowsiness, sedation
  • Dry mouth or throat
  • Constipation (due to codeine)
  • Nausea or mild abdominal discomfort
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
• Less common but serious side effects:
  • Respiratory depression (especially with high doses of codeine)
  • Allergic reactions: rash, itching, swelling
  • Confusion or hallucinations (more likely in the elderly)
  • Dependence or withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use of codeine

Seek immediate medical help if you notice breathing difficulty, severe drowsiness, or signs of an allergic reaction.

ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS Contraindications ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

This medication is contraindicated in several medical scenarios. It should not be taken unless approved by a healthcare professional in patients with the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity: Allergy to pseudoephedrine, triprolidine, codeine, or any of the excipients.
• Children under 6 years: Due to the risk of respiratory depression from codeine.
• Severe respiratory disorders: Including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma attacks.
• Acute or severe liver disease: Codeine is metabolized in the liver and may accumulate in impaired function.
• Concomitant MAOI use: Must not be used within 14 days of MAOI therapy.
• Patients with known ultra-rapid CYP2D6 metabolizer status: Increased risk of codeine toxicity.
• History of substance abuse or opioid dependence

Special Precaution: Elderly patients and those with renal impairment, hypothyroidism, or CNS depression should use this medicine with caution.

Storage of ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS

Proper storage conditions ensure the safety, potency, and stability of ACTIFED COMPOUND LINCTUS.

• Temperature: Store below 25°C (77°F). Do not freeze.
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place away from direct moisture and steam (e.g., not in the bathroom).
• Packaging: Keep in original amber-colored bottle with a tightly closed cap to protect from light and contamination.
• Keep out of reach of children: Due to codeine content, accidental ingestion can be fatal.
• Do not use after the expiration date: Always check the label.
• Disposal: Follow pharmacist or local guidelines for disposal of unused or expired medication. Do not pour down the drain.

Improper storage may reduce effectiveness and increase the risk of bacterial contamination or chemical degradation.