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Maximum Strength Cold Tabs

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Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 100 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Capsule, Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2024
Label revision date
July 15, 2024
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 100 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist, alpha-1 Adrenergic Agonist
Dosage form
Capsule, Coated
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2024
Label revision date
July 15, 2024
Manufacturer
JHK DBA American Safety & First Aid
Registration number
M012
NDC root
73598-1342

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Drug Overview

Maximum Strength Cold Tabs is a combination medication designed to temporarily relieve symptoms associated with the common cold. It contains four active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant), guaifenesin (an expectorant that helps loosen mucus), and phenylephrine (a decongestant). Together, these ingredients help alleviate headaches, fever, nasal congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, sore throat, and sinus pressure, while also making coughs more productive by thinning bronchial secretions.

This product is formulated for use in various settings and is packaged in tamper-evident packets for safety and convenience. It is important to note that it is not manufactured or distributed by McNeil-PPC, Inc., the owner of the Tylenol trademark.

Uses

This medication is designed to temporarily relieve various symptoms associated with the common cold. If you're feeling under the weather, it can help ease your headache, reduce fever, and clear up nasal congestion. You may also find relief from a cough, minor aches and pains, a sore throat, and sinus congestion and pressure.

Additionally, this medication works to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making it easier to drain your bronchial tubes and produce a more effective cough. This can help you feel more comfortable as you recover from your cold symptoms.

Dosage and Administration

When using this medication, it's important to follow the directions carefully. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 caplets every 4 hours as needed. However, make sure not to exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period to avoid potential side effects.

If you are considering giving this medication to a child under 12 years old, it's best to consult with a doctor first. They can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage for younger patients. Always remember to take only the amount directed to ensure your safety and well-being.

What to Avoid

It's important to be cautious when using this product. You should not take it if you are currently using any other medications that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. If you're unsure whether a medication contains acetaminophen, please consult your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, avoid using this product if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients.

You should also refrain from using this product if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which are medications used for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease. You must wait at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI before using this product. If you have any questions about your medications, don't hesitate to ask a healthcare professional for guidance.

Side Effects

Taking this medication can lead to some serious side effects, so it's important to be aware of them. You should avoid using it if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients, or if you are currently taking certain medications for depression or Parkinson's disease. Be cautious if you have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, or other specific health conditions, and consult your doctor if you experience severe skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rash.

Additionally, if you notice symptoms like nervousness, dizziness, or worsening pain and cough, it's essential to stop using the product and seek medical advice. Severe liver damage can occur if you exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a day or combine it with other acetaminophen-containing products or excessive alcohol. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can lead to severe liver damage if you take more than 4,000 mg in a 24-hour period, use it with other medications containing acetaminophen, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using it. Be aware that acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions, such as reddening, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any skin reaction, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

If you have a severe sore throat that lasts more than two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, consult your doctor right away. You should also stop using the product and contact your doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, cough, nasal congestion lasting more than seven days, fever lasting more than three days, redness or swelling, or any new symptoms. These could indicate a serious condition. In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately, even if no symptoms are present.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. This is crucial for both adults and children, even if you don’t see any signs or symptoms of an overdose.

Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to get help right away. Remember, acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome.

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

If you are considering this medication for your child, it's important to know that you should consult a doctor before using it for children under 12 years old. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, but be sure not to exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. Always follow these guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of your child.

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 healthcare providers may not have tailored guidelines for elderly patients.

If you or a loved one is an older adult considering this medication, it’s important to discuss any potential risks or concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and circumstances. Always prioritize open communication about any changes in health or medication effects.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues). This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how your treatment may need to change based on your kidney function.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that your treatment is safe and effective, especially if you have any concerns about your kidney health.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver disease, it's important to consult your doctor before using this product. It contains acetaminophen, which can be harmful to your liver. To avoid severe liver damage, do not exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a 24-hour period. Additionally, be cautious if you are taking other medications that also contain acetaminophen, and limit your alcohol intake to fewer than three drinks per day while using this product. Always prioritize your liver health and follow your healthcare provider's advice.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be cautious when taking this medication, especially regarding potential interactions with other drugs. You should avoid using it alongside any products that contain acetaminophen, whether they are prescription or over-the-counter. Additionally, if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)—a type of medication often used for depression or certain other conditions—or if you have stopped taking one in the last two weeks, you should not use this product. If you're unsure whether your medication includes an MAOI, it's best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.

Furthermore, if you are taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin, make sure to speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before using this product. Discussing all your medications and any lab tests with your healthcare provider is crucial to ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature of 25°C (77°F). It can safely be kept in a range between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F), but be sure to avoid exposing it to excessive heat and humidity, as these conditions can affect its quality.

When handling the product, always check that the tamper-evident sealed packet is intact. If the packet is opened or torn, do not use the product, as this could compromise its safety and effectiveness. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, but do not exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. If the patient is under 12 years old, it’s important to consult a doctor for appropriate dosing guidance.

FAQ

What is Maximum Strength Cold Tabs used for?

Maximum Strength Cold Tabs temporarily relieves symptoms due to the common cold, including headache, fever, nasal congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, sore throat, and sinus congestion.

What are the active ingredients in Maximum Strength Cold Tabs?

The active ingredients are Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, and Phenylephrine.

How should adults and children 12 years and over take this medication?

Adults and children 12 years and over should take 2 caplets every 4 hours, not exceeding 10 caplets in 24 hours.

Are there any contraindications for using Maximum Strength Cold Tabs?

Do not use this product with any other product containing acetaminophen, if you have had an allergic reaction to it, or if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What should I do if I experience severe skin reactions?

If you experience severe skin reactions such as reddening, blisters, or rash, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

What are the storage instructions for Maximum Strength Cold Tabs?

Store at 25°C (77°F), with permitted excursions between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F). Avoid excessive heat and humidity.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center right away, even if no symptoms are present.

Can I use Maximum Strength Cold Tabs if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using this product.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Cold Tabs (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Cold Tabs.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Maximum Strength Cold Tabs, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

This product is a maximum strength cold tablet formulation designed for pain relief and fever reduction, as well as providing decongestant, expectorant, and cough suppressant effects. The active ingredients include acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine. It is intended to alleviate symptoms such as congestion, sinus pain and pressure, cough, fever, and minor aches and pains.

The product is packaged in tamper-evident packets for safety and convenience, with each packet containing two caplets. A total of 80 caplets are included in the packaging. These quality comfort tablets are specifically formulated and packaged for workplace use, adhering to ANSI Z308.1-2021 standards. This product is not manufactured or distributed by McNeil-PPC, Inc., the owner of the registered trademark Tylenol®. Product #1342.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold, including headache, fever, nasal congestion, cough, minor aches and pains, sore throat, and sinus congestion and pressure. Additionally, it aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, facilitating drainage of the bronchial tubes and enhancing the productivity of coughs.

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

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children aged 12 years and older are instructed to take 2 caplets every 4 hours as needed. It is imperative that they do not exceed a total of 10 caplets within a 24-hour period. For children under 12 years of age, it is recommended to consult a physician for appropriate dosing guidance.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Co-administration with any other product containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose. If uncertain about the presence of acetaminophen in other medications, consult a healthcare professional.

  • History of allergic reaction to this product or any of its ingredients, as this may lead to severe hypersensitivity reactions.

  • Concurrent use with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI, as this may result in serious drug interactions. If there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a current prescription, seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Warnings and Precautions

Severe liver damage may occur with the use of this product, which contains acetaminophen. Healthcare professionals should advise patients to avoid exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period. Additionally, caution is warranted when this product is used in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen or when patients consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Acetaminophen has been associated with severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, patients should be instructed to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Patients experiencing a severe sore throat that persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, should be advised to consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Healthcare professionals should instruct patients to stop using the product and seek medical advice if they experience any of the following: nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; worsening pain, cough, or nasal congestion lasting more than seven days; fever that worsens or lasts more than three days; presence of redness or swelling; emergence of new symptoms; or a cough that recurs or occurs with a rash or headache lasting longer than expected. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) immediately. Prompt medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are initially apparent.

Side Effects

Severe liver damage may occur in patients who exceed 4,000 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period, use other products containing acetaminophen concurrently, or consume three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Patients may experience severe skin reactions associated with acetaminophen, which can manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

In cases where a sore throat is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should consult a healthcare professional promptly.

This product should not be used in conjunction with any other medications containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. Patients with a history of allergic reactions to this product or any of its ingredients, as well as those currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or who have stopped taking an MAOI within the past two weeks, should also refrain from using this product.

Patients are advised to consult a doctor before use if they have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to prostate enlargement, or a persistent cough associated with excessive phlegm, smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Additionally, those taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should seek guidance from a healthcare professional prior to use.

While using this product, patients must adhere to the recommended dosage and should discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. They should also seek medical advice if pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or persists for more than seven days, if fever worsens or lasts more than three days, if redness or swelling occurs, if new symptoms arise, or if a cough recurs with a rash or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition requiring medical evaluation.

Drug Interactions

Co-administration of this product with any other formulation containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, is contraindicated due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose, which can lead to severe liver damage.

The use of this product is also contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or within 2 weeks of discontinuing such therapy. MAOIs are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, and Parkinson's disease. Patients uncertain about the presence of an MAOI in their current medication regimen should consult a healthcare professional prior to use.

Additionally, caution is advised when using this product in conjunction with warfarin, a blood-thinning medication. Patients should seek guidance from a healthcare provider or pharmacist before initiating treatment to ensure safe co-administration and appropriate monitoring of anticoagulation levels.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Cold Tabs (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Cold Tabs.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should consult a healthcare professional before use. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, with a maximum of 10 caplets in a 24-hour period.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. Monitoring for potential adverse effects and therapeutic efficacy is recommended in this population, given the lack of targeted data.

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 specific data available regarding the excretion of this medication in breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when considering the use of this medication during lactation.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the prescribing information 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 absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment and monitoring of these patients.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product. The presence of liver disease may increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly due to the acetaminophen content.

Severe liver damage may occur if patients exceed the recommended dosage of acetaminophen, which is limited to a maximum of 4,000 mg within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should avoid concurrent use of other medications containing acetaminophen, as this can further elevate the risk of liver toxicity.

Furthermore, consumption of three or more alcoholic drinks per day while using this product is contraindicated, as it may exacerbate the potential for liver damage. Monitoring of liver function is advised in patients with compromised liver function to ensure safety and efficacy during treatment.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt intervention is essential for both adults and children, regardless of whether any signs or symptoms are apparent.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that the absence of symptoms does not preclude the possibility of serious complications. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the patient closely and provide appropriate medical care as needed.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data in these areas limits the understanding of the compound's potential effects in nonclinical settings.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified that acetaminophen may be associated with severe skin reactions. Reports indicate that symptoms can include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is advised to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients must seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222, as prompt medical attention is critical for both adults and children, even if no signs or symptoms are present.

Patients should be instructed not to use this product in conjunction with any other medications containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription. If patients are uncertain whether a drug contains acetaminophen, they should consult a doctor or pharmacist for clarification.

It is essential to inform patients that they should not use this product if they have a history of allergic reactions to it or any of its ingredients. Additionally, patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease, or those who have stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks, should avoid this product. Patients should be encouraged to ask their healthcare provider or pharmacist if they are unsure whether their prescription includes an MAOI.

Patients should be advised to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. They should also seek medical advice if pain, cough, or nasal congestion worsens or persists for more than seven days, if fever worsens or lasts more than three days, or if any redness or swelling occurs. New symptoms or a cough that returns or occurs with a rash or headache that lasts should also prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider, as these may indicate a serious condition.

While using this product, patients must not exceed the recommended dosage. It is important for patients to consult a doctor before use if they have any of the following conditions: liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland. Patients should also seek medical advice if they have a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm or a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in tamper-evident sealed packets. It is essential to store the packets at a controlled room temperature of 25°C (77°F), with permissible excursions between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Care should be taken to avoid exposure to excessive heat and humidity. The product should not be used if the packet is opened or torn, ensuring the integrity of the contents is maintained.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, with a maximum of 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. For children under 12 years of age, it is advised to consult a doctor regarding appropriate dosing.

No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Maximum Strength Cold Tabs, 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 Maximum Strength Cold Tabs, 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.