Why is this medication prescribed?

Dynahist ER, containing Chlorpheniramine and Pseudoephedrine, is commonly prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with allergic rhinitis (hay fever), seasonal allergies, and the common cold.

Chlorpheniramine is an antihistamine that helps alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and runny nose by blocking the action of histamine, a substance in the body that triggers allergic symptoms. Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant that works by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing congestion and swelling, thus making breathing easier.

How should this medicine be used?

Dynahist ER (extended-release tablets containing Chlorpheniramine and Pseudoephedrine) is typically taken orally, usually every 12 hours or as directed by your healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always adhere to your doctor’s prescribed dosage and instructions. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other factors.
• Swallow Whole: Swallow the extended-release tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets unless instructed otherwise by your doctor or pharmacist. Breaking the tablets may result in the release of the entire drug dose at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Timing: Take Dynahist ER at the same times each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your body. It’s typically taken every 12 hours.
• Food: You can take Dynahist ER with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, taking it with food or milk may help alleviate discomfort.
• Avoid Close to Bedtime: Since Pseudoephedrine can cause stimulation and potential sleep disturbances, it’s generally recommended to avoid taking Dynahist ER close to bedtime. Taking it earlier in the day can help minimize these effects.
• Do Not Exceed Dosage: Do not exceed the recommended dosage unless directed by your doctor. Taking more medication than prescribed can increase the risk of side effects and complications.
• Duration of Use: Use Dynahist ER for the prescribed duration as instructed by your doctor, even if your symptoms improve. Stopping the medication prematurely may allow symptoms to return.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Dynahist ER, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

Always remember to store Dynahist ER at room temperature away from moisture and heat, and keep it out of reach of children. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Other uses for this medicine

• Nasal Congestion: Dynahist ER can help relieve nasal congestion associated with various respiratory conditions.
• Sinus Congestion: It may be prescribed to alleviate sinus congestion and pressure.
• Allergic Conjunctivitis: Dynahist ER may help relieve symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis, such as itching and redness in the eyes.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: It might be used to alleviate symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections, such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be observed when taking Dynahist ER. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Medical History: Before taking Dynahist ER, inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have a history of certain conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, glaucoma, prostate enlargement, or urinary retention.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, especially if you have a known allergy to antihistamines, decongestants, or any other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking Dynahist ER. It’s essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
• Children and Elderly: Use caution when administering Dynahist ER to children or the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to its effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Dynahist ER may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• Alcohol and Other Medications: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dynahist ER, as it can enhance drowsiness and dizziness. Also, inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Overuse and Dependency: Use Dynahist ER only as prescribed by your doctor. Prolonged or excessive use of decongestants like Pseudoephedrine can lead to tolerance, dependency, and rebound congestion.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and consult them if you have any concerns or questions regarding the use of Dynahist ER.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with taking Dynahist ER. However, taking it with food or milk may help reduce stomach upset in some individuals.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Dynahist ER, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Taking too much of the medication at once can increase the risk of side effects.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dynahist ER, like any medication, can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Drowsiness: Chlorpheniramine, one of the active ingredients in Dynahist ER, can cause drowsiness or sedation in some people. This effect may impair your ability to perform tasks requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Dry Mouth: Antihistamines like Chlorpheniramine can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness while taking Dynahist ER.
• Blurred Vision: Chlorpheniramine may cause temporary blurred vision or difficulty focusing.
• Constipation: Constipation is a less common side effect of antihistamines like Chlorpheniramine.
• Urinary Retention: In some cases, antihistamines can cause difficulty urinating or urinary retention, particularly in men with prostate enlargement.
• Nausea or Upset Stomach: Some individuals may experience nausea, stomach upset, or gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Nervousness or Excitability: Pseudoephedrine, another active ingredient in Dynahist ER, can cause nervousness or excitability in some individuals, particularly at higher doses.
• Insomnia: Pseudoephedrine’s stimulating effects may interfere with sleep, leading to insomnia or difficulty falling asleep.
• Increased Heart Rate or Blood Pressure: Pseudoephedrine can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, especially in individuals with preexisting cardiovascular conditions or hypertension.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Dynahist ER, characterized by symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Other Side Effects: Other less common side effects may include headache, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, sweating, weakness, or difficulty concentrating.

It’s important to note that this is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. If you experience any unusual or bothersome symptoms while taking Dynahist ER, contact your doctor or healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. Additionally, if you have any concerns about potential side effects, discuss them with your doctor before starting the medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: Store Dynahist ER at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Dynahist ER properly according to local guidelines or through a medication take-back program if available. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose of Dynahist ER or experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, hallucinations, seizures, extreme drowsiness, rapid heartbeat, or fainting, seek immediate medical attention. Call your local emergency services or poison control center for assistance.
• Poison Control: Contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on what to do in case of overdose. Have the medication bottle or packaging information available when you call.

What other information should I know?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Dynahist ER, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Do Not Share: Do not share Dynahist ER with others, even if they have similar symptoms. This medication is prescribed for your specific condition and should not be used by anyone else without a doctor’s recommendation.
• Medical Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your response to Dynahist ER and adjust your dosage if necessary. Keep all follow-up appointments and laboratory tests as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dynahist ER, as it can enhance drowsiness and dizziness.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions with Dynahist ER.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Dynahist ER may cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you.
• Allergic Reactions: If you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Dynahist ER, such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Dynahist ER for comprehensive information on its safe and effective use. If you have any questions or concerns, consult your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.