To use Duravent PE correctly, follow these steps:
- Shake the Bottle: Shake the bottle well before taking medicine to ensure active ingredients are adequately mixed.
- Measure the Dose: Take the correct dose by using the measuring spoon or cup provided with the medicine. Avoid taking more than the dose that is appropriate for your age group.
- Take by Mouth: Take the medicine by mouth, either with or without food. Swallow the liquid directly
- Stay Hydrated: Keep drinking plenty of water and fluids while on Duravent PE to thin mucus and soothe a sore throat.
- Wash Your Hands: Wash hands after taking the medication and measuring the medication to prevent administering medication to others.
If you forget a dose, take the dose when you remember. But if it is nearly time for your next dose, simply omit the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
The active constituents of Duravent PE act on various symptoms of upper respiratory infection:
Phenylephrine (Decongestant):
- Phenylephrine tightens blood vessels within the nose, which becomes decongesting and lowers swelling.
- It allows relief from nasal congestion so that breathing through the nose becomes easier.
- It relieves congestion discomfort by reducing nasal passage and sinus inflammation.
Dextromethorphan (Cough Suppressant):
- Dextromethorphan suppresses coughing in the brain.
- It reduces the number and severity of dry and productive coughs.
- By inhibiting the coughing sensation, it prevents further irritation of the throat and lungs, providing relief to patients with chronic coughing.
- In combination, these ingredients provide dual action, targeting the congestion and coughing most commonly seen in respiratory disease, providing significant relief for cold and flu patients.
Duravent PE is safe when taken as directed but has some side effects, which are listed below:
Common Side Effects:
- Drowsiness or dizziness: They are secondary to the sedative effect of dextromethorphan.
- Nausea: A small number of individuals may experience stomach discomfort or nausea, particularly when they take the drug on an empty stomach.
- Dry Mouth: Dryness of mouth is an effect of the drug.
- Severe Allergic Reactions: While rare, rash, swelling, or difficulty in breathing may occur for some individuals. In case such symptoms appear, immediately consult medical assistance.
- High Blood Pressure: Phenylephrine may elevate blood pressure levels, especially for individuals with a history of high blood pressure.
- Irregular or Rapid Heartbeat: Stop the medication as soon as palpitation or irregular heartbeats appear and consult with a medical doctor.
Before using Duravent PE, consider the below warnings and precautions:
Pre-existing Medical Conditions:
- Patients with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, or glaucoma should advise their doctor regarding the use of Duravent PE because phenylephrine may increase the blood pressure level or cause any other cardiovascular issue.
- Avoiding Alcohol: Alcohol tends to amplify drowsiness, so using alcohol must be avoided while under Duravent PE.
Pregnancy and Lactation:
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor prior to using this drug. Pregnancy and lactation in Duravent PE are not conclusively established.
Children:
- Duravent PE should not be given to children under 2 years of age. In children above 2 years, always use the correct dose based on their age and weight.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs):
- Co-administration of Duravent PE with MAOIs (such as used for depression) can lead to perilous side effects such as a hypertensive crisis (catastrophically high blood pressure). Avoid their concomitant administration.
Other Cough Medicines:
- Never take Duravent PE with other cough medicines or cold drugs to prevent accidental overdose or cross-reacting chemicals.
- Alcohol: Mixing alcohol with Duravent PE can cause additional side effects like drowsiness or dizziness.
Always inform your doctor in advance before taking Duravent PE if you are on other medications.
The dose of Duravent PE depends on the patient’s age and status:
- Adults and Children Over 12 Years: 10-20 mL q4h, not exceeding 120 mL/24h.
- Children Between 6 to 12 Years: 5-10 mL q4h, not exceeding 60 mL/24h.
- Children Between 2 to 5 Years: 2.5-5 mL q4h, not exceeding 30 mL/24h.
- Make sure to follow the prescribed dosage and never exceed what is indicated for fear of the side effects or overdose.