Who Makes This Medication?
Brand-name Actifed is made by McNeil Consumer Healthcare.
The version of Actifed currently available in the United States is different from
original Actifed, which contained triprolidine, instead of chlorpheniramine, and
pseudoephedrine, instead of phenylephrine. This change was made in response to new regulations that required pseudoephedrine to be sold behind the pharmacy counter. Some people who were accustomed to the original versions feel that the new, reformulated version is not as effective.
While brand-name original Actifed is no longer sold in the United States, generic versions are still available. Just look for products containing 2.5 mg of triprolidine hydrochloride and 60 mg of
pseudoephedrine hydrochloride. Your pharmacist can help you find a generic version of Actifed.
Phenylephrine is part of a class of drugs called decongestants. Specifically, it works by stimulating certain receptors known as alpha-adrenergic receptors. In the lining of the nose and sinuses, this action causes the blood vessels to constrict, allowing less fluid to leave the blood vessels and decreasing inflammation. This helps to relieve nasal and sinus congestion.
Chlorpheniramine belongs to a class of drugs called antihistamines. Specifically, it is an H1 receptor antagonist. This means that it blocks a specific type of histamine receptor in the body (known as H1 receptors). Because allergic reactions are partly caused by the release of histamine from certain cells in the body, Actifed can help relieve or prevent
allergy symptoms.
When and How to Take This Drug
Some general considerations for those taking Actifed include the following:
- This medication comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, usually every four hours.
- You can take Actifed with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with a little food.
- This medication could make you either drowsy or more awake. If you find that it makes you drowsy, it may be best to take it at night. If you find that it keeps you awake, you may want to take it during the day.
- For Actifed to work properly, it must be taken as directed.
There is only one standard recommended dose for Actifed. As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Just like any medicine, Actifed can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. Most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Possible side effects of Actifed include but are not limited to:
(Click Actifed Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
An overdose with Actifed can cause serious problems. If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Actifed Be Stored?
Actifed should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
For people who take Actifed on a regular schedule, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
