Health Library

Triprolidine/pseudoephedrine/codeine (By mouth)

Codeine (KOE-deen), Pseudoephedrine (soo-doe-e-FED-rin), Triprolidine (trye-PROE-li-deen)

Relieves cough and stuffy nose. This medicine contains a narcotic pain reliever.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• An overdose can be dangerous. Follow directions carefully so you do not get too much medicine at one time.
• Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Drop off any unused narcotic medicine at a drug take-back location right away. If you do not have a drug take-back location near you, flush any unused narcotic medicine down the toilet. Check your local drug store and clinics for take-back locations. You can also check the DEA web site for locations. Here is the link to the FDA safe disposal of medicines website: www.fda.gov/drugs/resourcesforyou/consumers/buyingusingmedicinesafely/ensuringsafeuseofmedicine/safedisposalofmedicines/ucm186187.htm Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how triprolidine/pseudoephedrine/codeine works. Tell your doctor if you are using any of the following:
  • Bethanidine, guanethidine, methyldopa, reserpine
  • Muscle relaxant
• Tell your doctor if you use anything else that makes you sleepy. Some examples are allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, and alcohol.
• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, breathing problems (including sleep apnea), gallbladder problems, heart rhythm problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, enlarged prostrate, trouble urinating, thyroid problems, stomach or bowel problems, or a history of glaucoma, asthma, ulcer, brain tumor, or head injury. Also, tell your doctor if you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • High risk of overdose, which can lead to death
  • Respiratory depression (serious breathing problem that can be life-threatening)
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• This medicine can be habit-forming. Do not use more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor if you think your medicine is not working.
• This medicine may cause constipation, especially with long-term use. Ask your doctor if you should use a laxative to prevent and treat constipation.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Extreme weakness, shallow breathing, slow heartbeat, sweating, cold, clammy skin, or seizures
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Trouble breathing or slow breathing

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 9/6/2024