diclofenac Ophthalmic

dye-KLOE-fen-ak SOE-dee-um

Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.

• Voltaren

In Canada

• Vofenal


• Voltaren Ophtha

Available Dosage Forms:

• Solution

Therapeutic Class: Ophthalmologic Agent

Pharmacologic Class: Diclofenac

Chemical Class: Diclofenac

Uses For diclofenac

Diclofenac ophthalmic (eye) solution is used to treat pain or swelling of the eye following cataract surgery. It is also used to relieve temporary pain and photophobia (oversensitivity of the eyes to light) in patients undergoing corneal refractive surgery (surgical procedure to reduce or cure certain eye or vision problems). diclofenac is a topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID).

diclofenac is available only with your doctor's prescription.

Before Using diclofenac

In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For diclofenac, the following should be considered:

Allergies

Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to diclofenac or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.

Pediatric

Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of diclofenac eye drops in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.

Geriatric

Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of diclofenac eye drops in the elderly.

Pregnancy

	Pregnancy Category	Explanation
1st Trimester	C	Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.
2nd Trimester	C	Animal studies have shown an adverse effect and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women OR no animal studies have been conducted and there are no adequate studies in pregnant women.
3rd Trimester	D	Studies in pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the fetus. However, the benefits of therapy in a life threatening situation or a serious disease, may outweigh the potential risk.

Breast Feeding

There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.

Interactions with Medicines

Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. Tell your healthcare professional if you are taking any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicine.

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol

Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with food, alcohol, or tobacco.

Other Medical Problems

The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of diclofenac. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:

• Allergy to aspirin, phenylacetic acid, and other NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil®, Aleve®, Celebrex®, Ecotrin®, or Motrin®), history of or


• Bleeding problems—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

• Corneal (front part of the eye) denervation or


• Corneal (front part of the eye) epithelial defects or


• Diabetes or


• Ocular (eye) surface diseases (e.g., dry eye syndrome) or


• Ocular (eye) surgeries, complicated or


• Ocular (eye) surgeries, multiple within a short period of time or


• Rheumatoid arthritis—Use with caution. May increase the risk of having corneal problems.

Proper Use of diclofenac

Your eye doctor will tell you how much of diclofenac to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to. diclofenac is not for long-term use.

Keep using diclofenac for at least 2 weeks unless your eye doctor tells you otherwise.

If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them while you are using diclofenac. Talk to your eye doctor about this if you have questions.

To use the eye drops:

• The bottle is only partially full to provide proper drop control.


• First, wash your hands. Tilt your head back and press your finger gently on the skin just beneath the lower eyelid away from the eye to make a space. Drop the medicine into this space. Let go of the eyelid and gently close your eyes. Do not blink. Keep your eyes closed and apply pressure to the inner corner of the eye with your finger for 1 or 2 minutes to allow the medicine to be absorbed by the eye.


• Immediately after using the eye drops, wash your hands to remove any medicine that may be on them.


• To keep the medicine as germ-free as possible, do not touch the applicator tip to any surface (including the eye). Also, keep the container tightly closed. Serious damage to the eye and possible loss of vision may result from using contaminated eye drops.

Dosing

The dose of diclofenac will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of diclofenac. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

• For ophthalmic dosage form (eye drops):
  
  • For eye pain or swelling following cataract surgery:
    
    • Adults—Use one drop in the affected eye four times a day, starting 24 hours after cataract surgery and continued for 2 weeks after surgery.
    
    
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  
  • For corneal refractive surgery:
    
    • Adults—Use one or two drops in the affected eye within an hour before corneal surgery. Then, use one or two drops in the affected eye within 15 minutes after corneal surgery and continued four times a day for up to 3 days.
    
    
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    
    
  
  

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of diclofenac, apply it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.

Storage

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Precautions While Using diclofenac

Your eye doctor will check your eyes at regular visits to make sure it is working properly and is not causing unwanted effects.

If your symptoms do not improve within a few days or if they become worse, check with your eye doctor.

Slow or delayed healing may occur while you are using diclofenac. Ask your eye doctor before using diclofenac together with a topical corticosteroid (e.g., betamethasone, hydrocortisone).

Using diclofenac may increase risk of having eye or vision problems (e.g., keratitis or other corneal problems). Stop using diclofenac and check with your eye doctor right away if you have blurred vision, changes in vision, or eye redness, irritation, or pain while using diclofenac.

Make sure your eye doctor knows if you are pregnant. Do not use diclofenac during the later part of a pregnancy unless your doctor tells you to.

While applying the medicine, your eyes will probably sting or burn for a short time. This is to be expected.

Do not use other medicines unless they have been discussed with your eye doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.

diclofenac Side Effects

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

• Eye redness, irritation, or pain


• tearing of the eyes

Less common

• Blindness


• blurred vision


• burning, dry, or itching eyes


• clear or yellow fluid from the eye


• decreased vision or any change in vision


• redness, pain, or swelling of the eye, eyelid, or inner lining of the eyelid


• sensitivity to light


• sticky or matted eyelashes


• throbbing pain

Incidence not known

• Feeling of something in the eye

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

• Burning and stinging of the eye

Less common

• Abdominal or stomach pain


• chills


• cold flu-like symptoms


• cough or hoarseness


• dizziness


• fever


• headache


• lack or loss of strength


• nausea


• pain


• runny nose


• sleeplessness


• sneezing


• stuffy nose


• swelling or puffiness of the face


• trouble with sleeping


• unable to sleep


• vomiting

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The information contained in the Thomson Reuters Micromedex products as delivered by Drugs.com is intended as an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatment. It is not a substitute for a medical exam, nor does it replace the need for services provided by medical professionals. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before taking any prescription or over the counter drugs (including any herbal medicines or supplements) or following any treatment or regimen. Only your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for you.

The use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products is at your sole risk. These products are provided "AS IS" and "as available" for use, without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. Thomson Reuters Healthcare and Drugs.com make no representation or warranty as to the accuracy, reliability, timeliness, usefulness or completeness of any of the information contained in the products. Additionally, THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE MAKES NO REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTIES AS TO THE OPINIONS OR OTHER SERVICE OR DATA YOU MAY ACCESS, DOWNLOAD OR USE AS A RESULT OF USE OF THE THOMSON REUTERS HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS. ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED. Thomson Reuters Healthcare does not assume any responsibility or risk for your use of the Thomson Reuters Healthcare products.

More diclofenac Ophthalmic resources

• Diclofenac Ophthalmic Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Diclofenac Ophthalmic Drug Interactions
• Diclofenac Ophthalmic Support Group
• 0 Reviews for Diclofenac Ophthalmic - Add your own review/rating

• diclofenac ophthalmic Concise Consumer Information (Cerner Multum)


• Voltaren Ophthalmic Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare diclofenac Ophthalmic with other medications

• Conjunctivitis
• Corneal Ulcer
• Inhibition of Intraoperative Miosis
• Keratoconjunctivitis
• Postoperative Ocular Inflammation

dantrolene

Generic Name: dantrolene (oral) (DAN troe leen)

Brand names: Dantrium, Dantrium Intravenous, Revonto

What is dantrolene?

Dantrolene is a muscle relaxant.

Dantrolene is used to treat muscle spasticity (stiffness and spasms) caused by conditions such as a spinal cord injury, stroke, cerebral palsy, or multiple sclerosis.

Dantrolene is also used to prevent muscle stiffness and spasms caused by malignant hyperthermia (a rapid rise in body temperature) that can occur during surgery with certain types of anesthesia.

Dantrolene may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about dantrolene?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to dantrolene, or if you have liver disease such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. You may be more likely to develop liver problems while taking dantrolene if you are a woman, or if you are older than 35. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk. Do not use dantrolene at a time when muscle tone is needed to assure safe balance and movement for certain activities. In some situations, it may endanger your physical safety to be in a state of reduced muscle tone.

Before taking dantrolene, tell your doctor if you have a history of liver disease, a breathing disorder such as COPD, heart disease, or a history of heart attack.

Dantrolene can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Dantrolene can cause muscle weakness, which can affect your ability to swallow. Use caution to prevent choking while you are eating meals. Talk with your doctor if you are unable to eat because of this side effect. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of dantrolene.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking dantrolene?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to dantrolene, or if you have liver disease such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. You may be more likely to develop liver problems while taking dantrolene if you are a woman, or if you are older than 35. Talk with your doctor about your individual risk.

If you have any of these other conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication:

• 
  

  a history of liver disease;

  
  


• 
  

  a breathing disorder such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease); or

  
  


• 
  

  heart disease, or a history of heart attack.

  
  

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether dantrolene is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Dantrolene can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. Dantrolene should not be given to a child younger than 5 years old.

How should I take dantrolene?

Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water. If you take dantrolene within 4 hours before surgery, use only enough water needed to swallow the pill. Dantrolene can cause muscle weakness, which can affect your ability to swallow. Use caution to prevent choking while you are eating meals. Talk with your doctor if you are unable to eat because of this side effect. Store dantrolene at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

See also: Dantrolene dosage (in more detail)

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Overdose symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, and extreme drowsiness or muscle weakness.

What should I avoid while taking dantrolene?

Do not use dantrolene at a time when muscle tone is needed to assure safe balance and movement for certain activities. In some situations, it may endanger your physical safety to be in a state of reduced muscle tone. Dantrolene can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase some of the side effects of dantrolene. Avoid exposure to sunlight, sunlamps, or tanning beds. Dantrolene can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, and a sunburn may result. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) when you are outdoors.

Dantrolene side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• 
  

  severe diarrhea or constipation;

  
  


• 
  

  weak or shallow breathing;

  
  


• 
  

  pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding;

  
  


• 
  

  trouble swallowing, especially if it causes choking;

  
  


• 
  

  nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);

  
  


• 
  

  black, bloody, or tarry stools;

  
  


• 
  

  coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds;

  
  


• 
  

  seizure (black-out or convulsions); or

  
  


• 
  

  urinating less than usual or not at all.

  
  

Less serious side effects may include:

• 
  

  drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, tired feeling;

  
  


• 
  

  mild diarrhea or constipation;

  
  


• 
  

  mild nausea, vomiting, stomach pain;

  
  


• 
  

  problems with speech, balance, or walking;

  
  


• 
  

  headache, confusion, vision problems;

  
  


• 
  

  sleep problems (insomnia);

  
  


• 
  

  sweating, drooling; or

  
  


• 
  

  urinating more than usual.

  
  

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Dantrolene Dosing Information

Usual Adult Dose for Malignant Hyperthermia:

For preoperative to prevent or attenuate the development of clinical and laboratory signs of malignant hyperthermia in individuals judged to be susceptible:

IV: 2.5 mg/kg IV, starting approximately 75 minutes before anticipated anesthesia and infused over approximately 1 hour. This dose should be effective provided that the usual precautions, such as avoidance of established malignant hyperthermia triggering agents, are followed. Additional IV dantrolene may be indicated during anesthesia and surgery because of the appearance of early clinical and/or blood gas signs of malignant hyperthermia or because of prolonged surgery. Additional doses must be individualized.

Oral: 4 to 8 mg/kg/day orally in three or four divided doses for 1 or 2 days prior to surgery, with the last dose being given with a minimum of water approximately 3 to 4 hours before scheduled surgery. Adjustment can usually be made within the recommended dosage range to avoid incapacitation (weakness, drowsiness, etc.) or excessive gastrointestinal irritation (nausea and/or vomiting).

For postoperative use to prevent or attenuate the recurrence of signs of malignant hyperthermia when oral administration is not practical:

IV: dose must be individualized, starting with 1 mg/kg or more as the clinical situation dictates.

For use in the management of fulminant hypermetabolism of skeletal muscle characteristic of malignant hyperthermia crisis:

IV: (Starting dose = Minimum Dose) 1 mg/kg administered by continuous rapid intravenous push and continued until symptoms subside or the maximum cumulative dose of 10 mg/kg has been reached.

As soon as the malignant hyperthermia reaction is recognized, all anesthetic agents should be discontinued. The administration of 100% oxygen is also recommended.

If the physiologic and metabolic abnormalities reappear, the regimen may be repeated. It is important to emphasize that administration of dantrolene intravenous should be continuous until symptoms subside. The effective dose to reverse the crisis is directly dependent upon the individual's degree of susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia, the amount and time of exposure to the triggering agent, and the time elapsed between onset of the crisis and initiation of treatment.

Oral: 4 to 8 mg/kg/day orally in four divided doses administered for 1 to 3 days following a malignant hyperthermia crisis to prevent recurrence of the manifestations of malignant hyperthermia.

Usual Adult Dose for Chronic Spasticity:

For use in controlling the manifestations of clinical spasticity resulting from upper motor neuron disorders:

25 mg orally once daily for 7 days, then
25 mg three times a day for 7 days, then
50 mg three times a day for 7 days, then
100 mg three times a day.

Prior to administration, consideration should be given to the potential response to treatment. A decrease in spasticity sufficient to allow a daily function not otherwise attainable should be the therapeutic goal of treatment with dantrolene.

It is important to establish a therapeutic goal (regain and maintain a specific function such as therapeutic exercise program, utilization of braces, transfer maneuvers, etc.) before beginning dantrolene therapy.

Dosage should be titrated and individualized for maximum effect. The lowest dose compatible with optimal response is recommended.

Some patients will not respond until higher daily dosage is achieved. Each dosage level should be maintained for seven days to determine the patient's response. If no further benefit is observed at the next higher dose, dosage should be decreased to the previous lower dose.

Therapy with a dose four times daily may be necessary for some individuals. Doses higher than 100 mg four times daily should not be used.

In view of the potential for liver damage in long-term dantrolene use, therapy should be stopped if benefits are not evident within 45 days.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Malignant Hyperthermia:

For preoperative to prevent or attenuate the development of clinical and laboratory signs of malignant hyperthermia in individuals judged to be susceptible:

IV: 2.5 mg/kg IV, starting approximately 75 minutes before anticipated anesthesia and infused over approximately 1 hour. This dose should be effective provided that the usual precautions, such as avoidance of established malignant hyperthermia triggering agents, are followed. Additional IV dantrolene may be indicated during anesthesia and surgery because of the appearance of early clinical and/or blood gas signs of malignant hyperthermia or because of prolonged surgery. Additional doses must be individualized.

Oral: 4 to 8 mg/kg/day orally in three or four divided doses for 1 or 2 days prior to surgery, with the last dose being given with a minimum of water approximately 3 to 4 hours before scheduled surgery. Adjustment can usually be made within the recommended dosage range to avoid incapacitation (weakness, drowsiness, etc.) or excessive gastrointestinal irritation (nausea and/or vomiting).

For postoperative use to prevent or attenuate the recurrence of signs of malignant hyperthermia when oral administration is not practical:

IV: dose must be individualized, starting with 1 mg/kg or more as the clinical situation dictates.

For use in the management of fulminant hypermetabolism of skeletal muscle characteristic of malignant hyperthermia crisis:

IV: (Starting dose = Minimum Dose) 1 mg/kg administered by continuous rapid intravenous push and continued until symptoms subside or the maximum cumulative dose of 10 mg/kg has been reached.

As soon as the malignant hyperthermia reaction is recognized, all anesthetic agents should be discontinued. The administration of 100% oxygen is also recommended.

If the physiologic and metabolic abnormalities reappear, the regimen may be repeated. It is important to emphasize that administration of dantrolene intravenous should be continuous until symptoms subside. The effective dose to reverse the crisis is directly dependent upon the individual's degree of susceptibility to malignant hyperthermia, the amount and time of exposure to the triggering agent, and the time elapsed between onset of the crisis and initiation of treatment.

Oral: 4 to 8 mg/kg/day orally in four divided doses administered for 1 to 3 days following a malignant hyperthermia crisis to prevent recurrence of the manifestations of malignant hyperthermia.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Chronic Spasticity:

For use in controlling the manifestations of clinical spasticity resulting from upper motor neuron disorders: 0.5 mg/kg orally once daily for 7 days, then
0.5 mg/kg three times a day for 7 days, then
1 mg/kg three times a day for 7 days, then
2 mg/kg three times a day.

Dosage should be titrated and individualized for maximum effect. The lowest dose compatible with optimal response is recommended.

Some patients will not respond until higher daily dosage is achieved. Each dosage level should be maintained for seven days to determine the patient's response. If no further benefit is observed at the next higher dose, dosage should be decreased to the previous lower dose.

Therapy with a dose four times daily may be necessary for some individuals. Doses higher than 100 mg four times daily should not be used.

In view of the potential for liver damage in long-term dantrolene use, therapy should be stopped if benefits are not evident within 45 days.

What other drugs will affect dantrolene?

Cold or allergy medicine, sedatives, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, and medicine for seizures, depression or anxiety can add to sleepiness caused by dantrolene. Tell your doctor if you regularly use any of these medicines, or any other muscle relaxers.

Tell your doctor about all other medications you use, especially:

• 
  

  birth control pills and other hormones; or

  
  


• 
  

  a heart or blood pressure medication such as amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Tiazac, Cartia, Cardizem), felodipine (Plendil), nicardipine (Cardene), nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat), nimodipine (Nimotop), nisoldipine (Sular), or verapamil (Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan).

  
  

This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with dantrolene. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

More dantrolene resources

• Dantrolene Side Effects (in more detail)
• Dantrolene Dosage
• Dantrolene Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Drug Images
• Dantrolene Drug Interactions
• Dantrolene Support Group
• 3 Reviews for Dantrolene - Add your own review/rating

• dantrolene Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Dantrolene MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)


• Dantrolene Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Dantrium Prescribing Information (FDA)


• Dantrium Monograph (AHFS DI)


• Dantrium Intravenous Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


• Dantrium Intravenous Prescribing Information (FDA)

Compare dantrolene with other medications

• Malignant Hyperthermia
• Spasticity

Where can I get more information?

• Your pharmacist can provide more information about dantrolene.

See also: dantrolene side effects (in more detail)

Donatussin DM Suspension

Pronunciation: FEN-il-EF-rin/DEX-klor-fen-IR-a-meen/DEX-troe-meth-OR-fan
Generic Name: Phenylephrine/Dexchlorpheniramine/Dextromethorphan
Brand Name: Donatussin DM

Donatussin DM Suspension is used for:

Relieving symptoms of sinus congestion, runny nose, sneezing, itchy nose or throat, itchy or watery eyes, and cough due to colds, upper respiratory infections, and allergies. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Donatussin DM Suspension is a decongestant, antihistamine, and cough suppressant combination. The decongestant works by constricting blood vessels and reducing swelling in the nasal passages. The antihistamine works by blocking the action of histamine, which helps reduce symptoms such as watery eyes and sneezing. The cough suppressant works in the brain to help decrease the cough reflex to reduce a dry cough.

Do NOT use Donatussin DM Suspension if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Donatussin DM Suspension


• you have severe high blood pressure, severe heart blood vessel disease, rapid heartbeat, or severe heart problems


• you are unable to urinate or are having an asthma attack


• you take droxidopa, sodium oxybate (GHB), or you have taken furazolidone or a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (eg, phenelzine) within the last 14 days

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.

Before using Donatussin DM Suspension:

Some medical conditions may interact with Donatussin DM Suspension. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:

• if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding


• if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement


• if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances


• if you have a history of adrenal gland problems (eg, adrenal gland tumor), heart problems (eg, fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; heart disease), high or low blood pressure, diabetes, blood vessel problems, stroke, glaucoma or increased pressure in the eye, or thyroid problems


• if you have a history of asthma, chronic cough, lung or breathing problems (eg, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, sleep apnea), or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or if your cough occurs with large amounts of mucus


• if you have a history of stomach or bowel pulcers; a blockage of your stomach, bladder, or intestines; kidney problems; or trouble urinating; or if you have an enlarged prostate or other prostate problems

• Digoxin or droxidopa because the risk of irregular heartbeat or heart attack may be increased


• Beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors (eg, tolcapone), furazolidone, linezolid, MAOIs (eg, phenelzine), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (eg, citalopram, fluoxetine), sodium oxybate (GHB), or tricyclic antidepressants (eg, amitriptyline) because they may increase the risk of Donatussin DM Suspension's side effects


• Bromocriptine or hydantoins (eg, phenytoin) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by Donatussin DM Suspension


• Guanadrel, guanethidine, mecamylamine, methyldopa, or reserpine because their effectiveness may be decreased by Donatussin DM Suspension

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Donatussin DM Suspension may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.

How to use Donatussin DM Suspension:

• Take Donatussin DM Suspension by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.


• Shake well before each use.


• Use a measuring device marked for medicine dosing. Ask your pharmacist for help if you are unsure of how to measure your dose.


• If you miss a dose of Donatussin DM Suspension and you are taking it regularly, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Donatussin DM Suspension.

Important safety information:

• Donatussin DM Suspension may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Donatussin DM Suspension with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.


• Do not drink alcohol or use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using Donatussin DM Suspension; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.


• Do not take diet or appetite control medicines while you are taking Donatussin DM Suspension without checking with your doctor.


• Before you start any new medicine, check the label to see if it has a decongestant, antihistamine, or cough suppressant in it too. If it does or if you are not sure, check with your doctor or pharmacist.


• Do not use Donatussin DM Suspension for a cough with a lot of mucus. Do not use it for a long-term cough (eg, caused by asthma, emphysema, smoking). However, you may use it for these conditions if your doctor tells you to.


• Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.


• If your symptoms do not get better within 5 to 7 days or if they get worse, check with your doctor.


• Donatussin DM Suspension may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Donatussin DM Suspension. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.


• Donatussin DM Suspension may interfere with skin allergy tests. If you are scheduled for a skin test, talk to your doctor. You may need to stop taking Donatussin DM Suspension for a few days before the tests.


• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Donatussin DM Suspension before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.


• Some of these products contain phenylalanine. If you must have a diet that is low in phenylalanine, ask your pharmacist if it is in your product.


• Use Donatussin DM Suspension with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, nervouseness, sleeplessness, and trouble urinating.


• Caution is advised when using Donatussin DM Suspension in CHILDREN; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially excitability.


• Donatussin DM Suspension should be used with extreme caution in CHILDREN younger than 6 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.


• PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Donatussin DM Suspension while you are pregnant. Some ingredients of Donatussin DM Suspension are found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Donatussin DM Suspension.

Possible side effects of Donatussin DM Suspension:

All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:

Constipation; diarrhea; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth, nose, or throat; excitability; headache; loss of appetite; nausea; nervousness or anxiety; trouble sleeping; upset stomach; vomiting; weakness.

Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion; difficulty urinating or inability to urinate; fast or irregular heartbeat; fever, chills, or persistent sore throat; hallucinations; loss of coordination; mental or mood changes (eg, depression); seizures; severe dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, or headache; severe dryness of mouth, nose, and throat; severe or persistent trouble sleeping; shortness of breath; tremor; unusual bruising or bleeding; unusual tiredness or weakness; vision problems (eg, double vision, severe or persistent blurred vision).

This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.

If OVERDOSE is suspected:

Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include blurred vision; confusion; flushing; hallucinations; mental or mood changes; muscle spasms; seizures; severe dizziness, lightheadedness, or headache; severe drowsiness; trouble breathing; unusually fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; vomiting.

Proper storage of Donatussin DM Suspension:

Store Donatussin DM Suspension at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Do not freeze. Store away from heat and light. Keep Donatussin DM Suspension out of the reach of children and away from pets.

General information:

• If you have any questions about Donatussin DM Suspension, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.


• Donatussin DM Suspension is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.


• If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.


• Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Donatussin DM Suspension. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Donatussin DM resources

• Donatussin DM Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
• Donatussin DM Drug Interactions
• Donatussin DM Support Group
• 0 Reviews for Donatussin DM - Add your own review/rating

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