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Severe Congestion and Cough Max

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Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2024
Label revision date
January 31, 2024
Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 10 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Liquid
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2024
Label revision date
January 31, 2024
Manufacturer
AptaPharma Inc.
Registration number
M012
NDC root
76281-517

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Drug Overview

Maximum Strength Max Severe Congestion & Cough is a medication designed to help relieve symptoms associated with colds, such as cough and nasal congestion. It works by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, making it easier for you to drain your bronchial tubes.

This product contains three active ingredients: dextromethorphan HBr, which acts as a cough suppressant; guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps thin and loosen mucus; and phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant that alleviates nasal and chest congestion. It is intended for adults aged 12 and over, providing temporary relief from discomfort caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you breathe easier by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, which allows for better drainage of your bronchial tubes. If you're experiencing a cold, it can temporarily relieve symptoms such as a cough caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial area, as well as nasal congestion.

You can rely on this treatment to help manage these uncomfortable symptoms, making it easier for you to feel more comfortable while you recover.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the recommended directions when taking this medication. You should use the provided dosage cup to measure your dose accurately. Remember, 1 mL is equal to one milliliter. Make sure not to exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period to avoid any potential risks.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours as needed. However, if your child is under 12 years old, you should not use this medication for them. Always adhere to these guidelines to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

There are no specific contraindications, controlled substance classifications, or risks of abuse, misuse, or dependence associated with this medication. This means that, based on the available information, there are no particular situations or conditions under which you should avoid using it. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that this medication is appropriate for your individual health needs.

Side Effects

It's important to be aware of potential side effects when using this product. You should not use it if you are currently taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication for depression or certain other conditions, or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. This product is not recommended for children under 12 years old.

Before using this product, consult your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate. While using the product, do not exceed the recommended dosage. If you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, or if your symptoms do not improve within seven days or are accompanied by a fever, you should stop using it and consult a doctor. Additionally, if your cough returns or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, seek medical advice, as these may indicate a more serious issue. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult a healthcare professional before use.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication for depression or certain other conditions, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. This product is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Before using this product, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate, or a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Always follow the dosage instructions carefully and do not exceed the recommended amount.

You should stop using this product and contact your doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness, if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, or if they are accompanied by a fever. Additionally, if your cough returns or is associated with fever, rash, or a persistent headache, seek medical advice as these may indicate a more serious issue. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to get emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Overdose

It's important to follow the recommended dosage when using this product. Taking more than the directed amount can lead to an overdose, which may cause serious health issues. Signs of an overdose can include unusual symptoms that may vary depending on the specific product, so it's crucial to be aware of how you feel after taking it.

If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical help. You can call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital. Always remember, it's better to be safe and get checked out if you have any concerns about your health.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

It is important to know that this medication is not recommended for children under 12 years of age. If you have a child in this age group, you should avoid using this medication and consult your healthcare provider for alternative options. Always prioritize your child's safety and well-being when considering any treatment.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting the medication. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that there are no specific guidelines or dosage adjustments mentioned for your condition in the available information. This means that the usual recommendations for monitoring or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues) are not provided.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medications you take are safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help you understand how your condition may affect your treatment plan.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns regarding your liver health and how it may relate to your treatment. They can help ensure that you receive the safest and most effective care.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious about combining medications. You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication often prescribed for depression, certain psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, you should wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before using this product. If you're unsure whether your current medication includes an MAOI, it's best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Always discuss any medications you are taking with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety and avoid potentially harmful interactions. Your health is a priority, and your provider can help you navigate any concerns.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F). It's important to avoid refrigeration, as this can affect the product's effectiveness.

When handling the product, make sure to do so in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Always follow any additional safety instructions provided with the product to ensure safe usage and disposal.

Additional Information

No further information is available.

FAQ

What is Maximum Strength Max Severe Congestion & Cough used for?

It helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions to drain bronchial tubes, temporarily relieving symptoms of a cold, including cough and nasal congestion.

What are the active ingredients in this medication?

The active ingredients are Dextromethorphan HBr (cough suppressant), Guaifenesin (expectorant), and Phenylephrine HCl (nasal decongestant).

Who should use this product?

This product is intended for adults and children ages 12 and over. It should not be used by children under 12 years of age.

What is the recommended dosage for adults?

Adults and children 12 years and older should take 20 mL every 4 hours, not exceeding 6 doses in a 24-hour period.

Are there any warnings associated with this medication?

Do not use if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI. Consult a doctor if you have certain health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop use and ask a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, or if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or are accompanied by a fever.

Can I use this medication if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before use.

How should I store this medication?

Store between 15-30°C (59-86°F) and do not refrigerate.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Severe Congestion and Cough Max (dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Severe Congestion and Cough Max.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Severe Congestion and Cough Max, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

AP SAFE® is a maximum strength formulation designed for the relief of cough and congestion. Each 6 FL OZ (177 mL) bottle contains a combination of active ingredients: Dextromethorphan HBr, a cough suppressant; Guaifenesin, an expectorant that thins and loosens mucus; and Phenylephrine HCl, a nasal decongestant. This product is intended for use by adults aged 12 and over. The National Drug Code (NDC) for this product is 76281-517-25. It is manufactured by AptaPharma Inc., located at 1533 Union Ave., Pennsauken, NJ 08110. This product is not manufactured or distributed by Reckitt Benckiser Inc., the distributor of Mucinex® FAST-MAX™ Severe Congestion & Cough. Users are advised not to use the product if the printed seal under the cap is torn or missing.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the relief of symptoms associated with colds, including cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation and nasal congestion. It aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, facilitating drainage of the bronchial tubes.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to take the medication only as recommended. It is essential to utilize the provided dosage cup for accurate measurement, with 1 mL equating to one milliliter. Patients must not exceed 6 doses within any 24-hour period to avoid potential overdose.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL administered every 4 hours as needed. The use of this medication is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications

There are no contraindications associated with the use of this product. It is not classified as a controlled substance, and there are no known risks of abuse, misuse, or dependence. Additionally, there are no specific instructions indicating that the product should not be taken or used under any circumstances.

Warnings and Precautions

The use of this product is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, it should not be used for at least two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult a doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

This product is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and recommend that patients seek medical advice prior to use if they have any of the following conditions: heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, or a chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Patients with a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) should also consult a healthcare provider before use. It is imperative that patients adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and contact their healthcare provider if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve within seven days or are accompanied by a fever, or if a cough recurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache, medical advice should be sought, as these may indicate a serious condition.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the patient should contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of several important warnings and precautions associated with the use of this product. It is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing such medication. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if they are uncertain whether their prescription includes an MAOI. Additionally, this product is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Before using this product, patients with certain medical conditions should seek medical advice. These conditions include heart disease, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, and chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Patients experiencing a cough with excessive phlegm should also consult a healthcare provider prior to use.

While using this product, it is crucial for patients to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount. Patients should discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if symptoms do not improve within 7 days or are accompanied by a fever, or if a cough recurs with fever, rash, or persistent headache, medical advice should be sought, as these may indicate a serious condition.

Pregnant or breastfeeding patients are advised to consult a healthcare professional before using this product to ensure safety for both themselves and their child.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of this product with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. MAOIs are typically prescribed for the treatment of depression, psychiatric disorders, emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Patients should not take this product while on MAOIs or within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI. It is essential for patients to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, to verify whether their current prescription includes an MAOI before initiating treatment with this product.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Severe Congestion and Cough Max (dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hcl). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Severe Congestion and Cough Max.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not be administered this medication. Safety and efficacy have not been established in this population, and therefore, its use is contraindicated in children within this age range.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any potential adverse effects or changes in efficacy, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully considered in these populations to ensure the safety of both the mother and the fetus or infant.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data regarding the excretion of this drug in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the available data regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with reduced kidney function, as the lack of information necessitates careful clinical judgment and monitoring.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

Overdosage of this product can lead to serious health consequences. It is imperative that healthcare professionals advise patients to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage guidelines. Exceeding the directed dosage may result in adverse effects that could compromise patient safety.

In the event of suspected overdosage, it is crucial to monitor the patient for any potential symptoms that may arise. Symptoms of overdosage can vary depending on the specific product and the extent of the excess dosage. Healthcare providers should be vigilant in assessing the patient's condition and may need to implement appropriate management strategies.

Recommended actions in the case of overdosage include immediate medical evaluation and intervention. Healthcare professionals should consider contacting a poison control center for guidance on the management of the specific symptoms presented. Supportive care may be necessary, and symptomatic treatment should be initiated as required.

In summary, adherence to the prescribed dosage is essential to prevent overdosage and its associated risks. Healthcare professionals play a vital role in educating patients about the importance of following dosage instructions and in managing any incidents of overdosage effectively.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available for SPL code 90375-7.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. It is crucial to emphasize the importance of safety in the home environment, particularly for households with young children.

In the event of an overdose, healthcare providers should instruct patients to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Patients should be made aware of the signs of overdose and the urgency of obtaining assistance to ensure their safety and well-being.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It is essential to store the product at a temperature range of 15-30°C (59-86°F). Refrigeration is not permitted, as it may compromise the integrity of the product. Proper handling and storage conditions must be adhered to in order to maintain product efficacy and safety.

Additional Clinical Information

No further data are available.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Severe Congestion and Cough Max, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Severe Congestion and Cough Max, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.