Actifed-DM

Actifed DM Cough Syrup combines triprolidine (an antihistamine that blocks histamine to ease allergy symptoms and may cause mild drowsiness), pseudoephedrine (a decongestant that shrinks swollen nasal passages for better breathing), and dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant that calms the brain’s cough center). Together, they target dry coughs, nasal congestion, and related cold/flu symptoms, providing multi-symptom relief without addressing fever directly. The syrup form allows easy dosing for adults and children over 6 (under medical guidance), helping clear airways and reduce irritation over time.

Expert Review

Dr. Muhammad Asif, a respected Pakistani general physician at Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, describes how triprolidine counters histamine-driven symptoms, pseudoephedrine clears congestion, and dextromethorphan quiets coughs, making this combination useful for upper respiratory issues. He points out its effectiveness for dry coughs but advises caution with drowsiness from triprolidine and potential blood pressure effects from pseudoephedrine, especially in those with heart or thyroid conditions.

Primary Uses

• Relieves dry cough and nasal congestion from colds, flu, or allergies.

Indications

Used to ease dry coughs, runny/stuffy nose, sneezing, and related congestion symptoms in upper respiratory conditions, without producing phlegm.

Side Effects

Very common: Headache. Common: Insomnia, dizziness, drowsiness, nervousness, difficulty with tasks, blurred vision, thick mucus, dry mouth, nausea, or stomach upset. Rare: Confusion, depression, tremors, slurred speech, or low blood pressure. Contact your doctor if severe or lasting.

Warnings

• Pregnancy: Consult your doctor before use, as safety data is limited.
• Lactation: Generally safe, but check with your doctor.
• Driving: Avoid driving if drowsy or dizzy occurs.
• Ischaemic Colitis: Stop and seek help if sudden abdominal pain or rectal bleeding develops (linked to pseudoephedrine).
• CNS Effects: Avoid alcohol or sedatives, as dextromethorphan may increase toxicity.

Precautions

• Prolonged use risks dependence, especially with substance or mental health history.
• Monitor for overdose signs like severe drowsiness or rapid heartbeat.
• Use cautiously with diabetes, high blood pressure, or glaucoma.
• Not for productive (wet) coughs—see a doctor if cough lasts over 7 days.

Contraindications

Avoid if:

• Allergic to triprolidine, dextromethorphan, pseudoephedrine, or ingredients.
• You have lung disease, diabetes, pheochromocytoma, or overactive thyroid.
• Taking MAO inhibitors or other conflicting meds.

How to Use

Shake well before use. Measure the prescribed dose (based on age/weight) with the provided cup or spoon and take by mouth, with or without food. Typically 5-10 ml every 4-6 hours for adults; follow your doctor’s instructions—don’t exceed 4 doses in 24 hours.

Drug Interactions

• May interact with sedatives, hypnotics, bupropion, tricyclic antidepressants, sympathomimetics, atropine, guanethidine, methyldopa, adrenergic blockers, moclobemide, cardiac glycosides, ergot alkaloids, oxytocin, haloperidol, thioridazine, perphenazine, amiodarone, propafenone, quinidine, flecainide, terbinafine, or other antihistamines—increasing drowsiness or blood pressure effects. Consult your doctor.

Storage

Store at room temperature, away from light and heat. Keep out of children’s reach.

Quick Tips

• Measure doses accurately—don’t guess.
• Stay hydrated to thin mucus.
• Avoid alcohol to prevent amplified drowsiness.
• Don’t use longer than 5-7 days without doctor advice.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only. Consult a doctor for personalized advice on side effects, precautions, or interactions, as individual needs vary.