Generic
Diphenhydramine + L-Menthol
2 brands available in the market
At a glance
Diphenhydramine + L-Menthol is a combination syrup used for the treatment of cough, sneezing, nasal congestion, and allergic symptoms.
Description
Diphenhydramine is a potent antihistamine and antitussive with anticholinergic and sedative properties. Its antitussive action is located in the brain stem and is discrete from H1-receptor blockade. Levomenthol has mild local anaesthetic and decongestant properties.
Indications
- Cough associated with common cold, allergy, bronchitis
- Sneezing, nasal congestion
- Throat and bronchial irritation
- Allergic symptoms (itchy eyes, nose, throat)
Therapeutic class
Combined cough expectorants
Pharmacological class
Antitussive + Antihistamine
Pharmacology
Diphenhydramine is a potent antihistamine and antitussive with anticholinergic and sedative properties. Levomenthol has mild local anaesthetic and decongestant properties which help soothe cough and reduce congestion.
Mechanism of action
Diphenhydramine suppresses cough centrally and treats allergy symptoms; L-Menthol provides local decongestant and soothing effects.
Dosage
Adult: 1-2 teaspoonful every 4 or 6 hours.
Child (>1 year): ½-1 teaspoonful every 4 or 6 hours.
Administration
May be taken with or without food.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
Side effects
Common: Drowsiness, dizziness, gastrointestinal disturbance, dry mouth/nose/throat, difficulty in urination, blurred vision, palpitations, tremor, convulsions, paresthesia, hypersensitivity reactions (skin rashes, erythema, urticaria, angioedema).
Precautions & warnings
May cause drowsiness; may impair ability to drive or operate machinery. Caution in narrow-angle glaucoma or symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity; chronic or persistent cough (asthma, cough with excessive secretions); patients currently receiving MAOIs or within the last two weeks.
Drug interactions
Alcohol, codeine, antihistamines, other CNS depressants: Effects may be potentiated.
Anticholinergics (psychotropic drugs, atropine): May cause tachycardia, dry mouth, GI disturbances, urinary retention, headache.
MAOIs: Potentiate and intensify anticholinergic effects.
Food interactions
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol (may potentiate effects).
Use in pregnancy
Use during pregnancy only when potential benefit exceeds hazards.
Pregnancy Category: N/A — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Use in lactation
Diphenhydramine is detected in breast milk; caution is required.
Pediatric use
Dosage for children under 1 year has not been established.
Geriatric use
Use with caution in elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Caution in moderate to severe renal or hepatic dysfunction.
Overdose effects
Overdose may cause drowsiness, hyperpyrexia, anticholinergic effects; higher doses may cause CNS excitation, hallucinations, coma, cardiovascular collapse. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Storage conditions
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture.
Chemical structure
Diphenhydramine + L-Menthol