SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, blurred vision, upset stomach, nausea, constipation, increased sweating, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
This medication can dry up and thicken mucus in your lungs, making it more difficult to breathe and clear your lungs. To help prevent this effect, drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: involuntary behaviors/movements (e.g., fixed upward stare, neck twisting, tongue movements), mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, hallucinations), ringing in the ears, shaking (tremors), slow/shallow breathing, trouble urinating, weakness.
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: dark urine, easy bruising/bleeding, slow heartbeat, persistent nausea/vomiting, severe abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin.
This drug may infrequently cause a very serious (rarely fatal) nervous system disorder (neuroleptic malignant syndrome). If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop taking this medication and seek immediate medical attention: fast/irregular heartbeat, very high fever, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, extreme drowsiness), seizure, severe muscle stiffness.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other side effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: See also Warning section.
This medication should not be used in a person who is unconscious or has severe breathing problems (e.g., respiratory depression, hypercapnia).
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to any of its ingredients; or to narcotic pain relievers (e.g., morphine); or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: abdominal problems (e.g., chronic constipation, ileus, pancreatitis), adrenal gland problem (e.g., Addison's disease), blood/immune system problems (e.g., bone marrow depression), brain disorders (e.g., seizures, head injury, tumor, increased intracranial pressure), breathing problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema), diabetes, glaucoma, heart problems (e.g., angina, irregular heartbeat), high blood pressure, liver disease, mental/mood problems (e.g., depression, psychosis), a certain spinal problem (kyphoscoliosis), stomach/intestinal problems (e.g., ulcers, blockage), thyroid disease, trouble urinating (e.g., due to enlarged prostate or urethral stricture), use/abuse of drugs/alcohol.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution while driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness. Limit the use of alcohol and certain other medications that cause drowsiness (see also Drug Interactions). To reduce dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
This medication may contain sugar and/or alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence, or liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely.
The elderly may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, especially dizziness, drowsiness, mental/mood changes, and low blood pressure.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only if clearly needed. It is not recommended for use in high doses or for long periods during the last 3 months of pregnancy due to increased risk for serious side effects in a newborn baby (e.g., withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, abnormal/persistent crying, diarrhea, seizures). Tell your doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication may pass into breast milk and have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.