Why is this medication prescribed?

Ala-Hist DM (containing the generic drug brompheniramine) is primarily prescribed for the relief of symptoms associated with allergies, the common cold, or respiratory illnesses such as sinusitis or bronchitis. These symptoms may include: runny nose, sneezing Itchy or Watery Eyes Itchy Throat or Nose Cough Brompheniramine is an antihistamine that works by blocking histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergic symptoms. It may also have mild drying effects, which can help reduce a runny nose and watery eyes. It contains three active ingredients: brompheniramine (an antihistamine), dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), and phenylephrine (a decongestant).

How should this medicine be used?

Ala-Hist DM is a combination medication used to relieve symptoms caused by the common cold, allergies, hay fever, and other breathing illnesses.

Dosage and Administration:

• Follow the Prescription: Always use Ala-Hist DM exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose.
• Measure Carefully: If you are using the liquid form, measure the dose carefully with a proper measuring device. Do not use a household spoon, as you might not get the correct dose.
• With or Without Food: Ala-Hist DM can be taken with or without food. If it causes stomach upset, it might be helpful to take it with food.
• Frequency: The frequency of use will depend on the severity of your symptoms and the specific instructions given by your doctor. Typically, it is taken every 4 to 6 hours, but do not exceed the maximum recommended dosage.
• Do Not Crush or Chew: If you are taking a tablet or capsule form, do not crush or chew it. Swallow it whole with water.
• Drowsiness: This medication may cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol while taking Ala-Hist DM, as it can increase drowsiness and dizziness.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Ala-Hist DM may interact with other medications.
• Medical Conditions: Discuss with your doctor if you have any medical conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma, or thyroid problems before taking Ala-Hist DM.
• Children and Elderly: Use with caution in children and elderly patients, as they may be more sensitive to the effects of the medication.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using this medication.

If you have any specific concerns or if you experience any unusual symptoms while using Ala-Hist DM, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

• Relief from Nasal Congestion: The phenylephrine component can help relieve nasal congestion associated with sinusitis or other upper respiratory tract infections.
• Off-Label Uses: Sometimes, physicians may prescribe Ala-Hist DM for conditions not listed in the official labeling if they believe the benefits may outweigh the risks. However, any off-label use should be strictly under a healthcare provider’s supervision.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Ala-Hist DM:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to brompheniramine, dextromethorphan, phenylephrine, or any other components of the medication. Watch for signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, and seek immediate medical attention if they occur.
• High Blood Pressure & Heart Disease: Phenylephrine can increase blood pressure and heart rate, so use with caution if you have hypertension or heart disease.
• Diabetes: Phenylephrine may affect blood sugar levels. Monitor your levels closely and consult your doctor if you notice significant changes.
• Glaucoma: Brompheniramine can increase eye pressure; avoid use if you have narrow-angle glaucoma without consulting your doctor.
• Thyroid Disorders: If you have hyperthyroidism, the stimulant effect of phenylephrine could exacerbate symptoms.
• Urinary Retention: Brompheniramine can worsen urinary retention, particularly in men with prostate enlargement.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding before using Ala-Hist DM. The effects on the fetus or nursing baby are not fully known.
• Operating Machinery and Driving: Brompheniramine may cause drowsiness, so avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Children and Elderly: Use with caution in children and the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to the medication’s side effects, such as dizziness, confusion, and sedation.
• Overdose Awareness: Be aware of symptoms of overdose, which may include severe drowsiness, confusion, seizures, difficulty breathing, and irregular heart rhythms. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions closely when using Ala-Hist DM, and consult them if you have any questions or concerns regarding its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Alcohol: Avoid alcoholic beverages while taking Ala-Hist DM, as alcohol can increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by the medication.
• Caffeine and Stimulants: Limit caffeine intake as it may increase the stimulant effects of phenylephrine, such as increased heart rate and blood pressure.
• General Diet: There are no specific dietary restrictions, but maintaining a balanced diet is generally recommended.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take as Soon as You Remember: If you miss a dose of Ala-Hist DM, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.
• Do Not Double Up: Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. Doubling up can increase the risk of side effects and overdose.
• Resume Regular Schedule: Continue with your regular dosing schedule after the missed dose has been skipped or taken.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Ala-Hist DM, like many medications, can cause side effects. These can range from mild to severe and may not occur in everyone. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and to consult your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual or persistent symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness: Brompheniramine, the antihistamine in Ala-Hist DM, can cause drowsiness or sedation. This is one of the most common side effects.
• Dizziness: Some people may feel lightheaded or dizzy, especially when standing up quickly (orthostatic hypotension).
• Dry Mouth, Nose, or Throat: Antihistamines can cause dryness in the mouth, nose, or throat. Drinking water or using sugar-free gum can help alleviate this.
• Nausea and Vomiting: The dextromethorphan and phenylephrine components can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and vomiting.
• Headache: Headaches are a possible side effect, especially due to the decongestant phenylephrine.
• Nervousness or Restlessness: Phenylephrine, a decongestant, can cause jitteriness or restlessness in some people.
• Blurred Vision: Brompheniramine may cause temporary blurred vision or difficulty focusing.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Constipation: The antihistamine can sometimes cause constipation.
• Difficulty Urinating: Brompheniramine can cause urinary retention, particularly in men with enlarged prostate.
• Increased Heart Rate: Phenylephrine may cause an increase in heart rate (tachycardia) or palpitations.
• Confusion: Especially in the elderly, brompheniramine may cause confusion or disorientation.
• Excitability: In children, instead of drowsiness, the antihistamine may cause paradoxical excitability.

Serious Side Effects: These side effects are rare but can be serious. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms include rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.
• Severe Dizziness or Fainting: If you feel extremely lightheaded or faint, it could indicate a severe drop in blood pressure.
• Fast/Irregular Heartbeat: Phenylephrine can cause serious heart issues, especially in those with preexisting heart conditions.
• Mental/Mood Changes: Unusual thoughts, hallucinations, or severe mood changes can occur, though this is rare.
• Seizures: Though very rare, seizures can occur, especially in cases of overdose.

If you experience any side effects, you can report them to your healthcare provider or directly to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program. Always consult your healthcare provider before stopping or starting any medication, and inform them of any side effects you experience while taking Ala-Hist DM.

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

Storage and Disposal of Ala-Hist DM:

Storage:

• Store Ala-Hist DM at room temperature, generally between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Avoid exposure to excessive heat, moisture, and light.
• Store the medication in a secure place where children cannot reach it. Accidental ingestion by children can be dangerous.
• Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from moisture and contamination.
• Do not store Ala-Hist DM in the bathroom, as the humidity can affect the medication’s effectiveness.

Disposal:

• Do not flush Ala-Hist DM down the toilet or pour it down a drain unless instructed to do so by specific disposal recommendations.
• When the medication is no longer needed or has expired, dispose of it according to local regulations. Many pharmacies offer take-back programs for unused medications.
• If no take-back program is available, mix the medication with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds or cat litter), place it in a sealed bag, and dispose of it in your household trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, dry mouth, large pupils, flushing, nausea, vomiting, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
• If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention by contacting a poison control center or going to the nearest emergency room.
• In the U.S., you can contact the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Medication Interactions: Be aware that Ala-Hist DM can interact with other medications, such as MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, and sedatives. Always inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking.
• Avoid Alcohol: Drinking alcohol while taking Ala-Hist DM can increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
• Operating Machinery: This medication may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Ala-Hist DM affects you.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking this medication.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Use as Directed: Follow the prescribed dosage exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not take more or less than instructed.
• Keep Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your response to the medication and to make any necessary adjustments.

Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the product’s packaging. If you have any questions or concerns about the use of Ala-Hist DM, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.