Why is this medication prescribed?

Aerohist Plus is a medication used to treat symptoms of allergies and colds. It contains three active ingredients:

• Chlorpheniramine: an antihistamine that helps relieve symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
• Methscopolamine: an anticholinergic that helps reduce mucus production and ease cough.
• Phenylephrine: a decongestant that reduces nasal congestion by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are general guidelines on how to use Aerohist Plus:

• Follow Instructions: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or those on the medication label.
• Administration:
  • Tablets: Swallow them whole with a full glass of water. Do not chew or crush them.
  • Liquid: Measure the dose with a proper measuring device, not a household spoon.
• Timing: Take it at the intervals recommended by your doctor or according to the label instructions. It’s often taken 2 to 3 times a day, depending on the formulation.
• Avoid Overuse: Do not take more than the recommended dose. Overuse can lead to serious side effects.
• Food and Drink: It can be taken with or without food. Avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

If you have any questions or experience any unusual symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

• Sinusitis: Inflammation of the sinuses, where its decongestant and antihistamine effects can be helpful.
• Allergic Rhinitis: To manage symptoms caused by allergens like pollen or pet dander.
• Upper Respiratory Infections: Such as the common cold, to alleviate symptoms like nasal congestion and cough.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to the components of Aerohist Plus or any other medications.
• Heart Disease: Phenylephrine can affect blood pressure, so caution is needed if you have heart disease or high blood pressure.
• Liver or Kidney Disease: Your dosage may need adjustment if you have liver or kidney conditions.
• Glaucoma: Methscopolamine can increase intraocular pressure, which is a concern for individuals with glaucoma.
• Other Medications: Check with your healthcare provider if you are taking other medications, especially other antihistamines, decongestants, or medications that affect the central nervous system.
• Over-the-Counter Products: Be cautious with other over-the-counter products that may contain similar ingredients.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Chlorpheniramine can cause drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Aerohist Plus as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. The safety of Aerohist Plus during these periods should be evaluated by your doctor.

If you have any concerns or experience any severe or unusual side effects, contact your healthcare provider for further guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can enhance the drowsiness caused by chlorpheniramine, so it’s best to avoid it while taking Aerohist Plus.
• Caffeine: There are no specific dietary restrictions involving caffeine, but if you notice any unusual symptoms after consuming caffeine, discuss it with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose, do not double up to make up for the missed dose.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you’re unsure what to do or have missed multiple doses, consult your healthcare provider for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aerohist Plus can cause a range of side effects. While not everyone experiences them, here are some possible side effects:

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness: Chlorpheniramine can cause drowsiness or sedation.
• Dry Mouth: A common side effect due to the anticholinergic properties of methscopolamine.
• Dizziness: You might feel lightheaded or dizzy.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea or an upset stomach.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Blurred Vision: Methscopolamine can affect your vision.
• Constipation: A side effect related to anticholinergic effects.
• Difficulty Urinating: Especially in older adults or those with prostate issues.
• Increased Heart Rate: Phenylephrine can potentially cause palpitations or increased heart rate.

Serious Side Effects:

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Severe Drowsiness or Confusion: Especially if the medication interacts with other drugs or is taken in large amounts.
• High Blood Pressure: Due to phenylephrine, which can be problematic for individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular issues.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately for advice and potential adjustments to your medication. Always report any side effects to your healthcare provider, as they can offer guidance and may adjust your treatment if necessary.

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

Storage and Disposal of Aerohist Plus:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store Aerohist Plus at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture. Generally, this means keeping it in a dry place at a temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Container: Keep it in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
  • Children: Store out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Disposal:
  • Unused or Expired Medication: Do not flush Aerohist Plus down the toilet or pour it into a drain. Instead, use a drug take-back program or follow local disposal guidelines for medications.
  • Drug Take-Back Programs: Many communities have drug take-back programs or disposal sites. Check with your local pharmacy or waste disposal facility for options.
  • Disposal Instructions: If no take-back options are available, mix the medication with an undesirable substance (like coffee grounds) in a sealed bag or container before throwing it away.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Overdose Symptoms: Symptoms of an overdose might include severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, or trouble breathing.
• Immediate Help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
• Poison Control: Contact your local poison control center or emergency services right away for guidance on what to do next.

What other information should I know?

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider of your complete medical history, including any allergies, other health conditions, or medications you are taking.
• Regular Check-ups: Follow up with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and any side effects.
• Interactions: Be aware of potential drug interactions with Aerohist Plus and avoid self-medicating with other products without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Usage Guidelines: Always use Aerohist Plus as prescribed and do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Emergency Contact: Keep emergency contact information, such as your healthcare provider’s number and poison control, easily accessible.

If you have any further questions or concerns about Aerohist Plus, discussing them with your healthcare provider can help ensure you use the medication safely and effectively.