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Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief

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This product has been discontinued

Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Capsule, Liquid Filled
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2022
Label revision date
December 30, 2024
Active ingredients
  • Acetaminophen 325 mg
  • Guaifenesin 200 mg
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 10 mg
  • Phenylephrine Hydrochloride 5 mg
Other brand names
Dosage form
Capsule, Liquid Filled
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2022
Label revision date
December 30, 2024
Manufacturer
RITE AID CORPORATION
Registration number
M012
NDC root
11822-1576

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Drug Overview

Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain & Cough Relief is a medication designed to provide temporary relief from various cold and flu symptoms, including minor aches and pains, headaches, sore throats, nasal congestion, and coughs. It contains several active ingredients: acetaminophen (a pain reliever and fever reducer), dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant), guaifenesin (an expectorant that helps loosen mucus), and phenylephrine HCl (a nasal decongestant).

This combination works together to relieve sinus pressure and pain, reduce fever, and make coughs more productive by thinning and loosening mucus. If you're experiencing discomfort from cold or flu symptoms, this medication may help alleviate your symptoms and improve your overall comfort.

Uses

If you're dealing with cold or flu symptoms, this medication can help provide temporary relief from minor aches and pains, headaches, sore throats, nasal congestion, and coughs. It also works to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making your coughs more productive. Additionally, it can temporarily reduce fever, helping you feel more comfortable while you recover.

Dosage and Administration

If you are an adult or a child aged 12 years and older, you should take 2 caplets every 4 hours as needed. It’s important to swallow the caplets whole, so do not crush, chew, or dissolve them. Make sure not to exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period to avoid potential side effects.

For children under 12 years of age, it’s best to consult a doctor before giving them this medication. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice to ensure safe and effective use.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking any other medication that contains acetaminophen, whether it's a prescription or over-the-counter drug. If you're unsure, please consult with your doctor or pharmacist. Additionally, do not use this product if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson's disease, or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. It's also important not to use this product if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or any of its ingredients.

To ensure safety, keep this product out of reach of children and do not exceed the recommended dosage. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance.

Side Effects

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

You should stop using this product and consult a doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than seven days. Additionally, if you have a sore throat that is severe, persists for more than two days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, seek medical attention. Always consult a doctor before use if you have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or other specific health concerns.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which can be harmful to your liver if not used correctly. Make sure not to exceed 10 caplets (3,250 mg of acetaminophen) in a 24-hour period. Avoid taking more than 4,000 mg in a day, using other medications that also contain acetaminophen, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product.

Be aware that acetaminophen can cause severe skin reactions, such as redness, blisters, or rashes. If you experience any of these symptoms, 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 this product and contact your doctor if you experience nervousness, dizziness, sleeplessness, worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than seven days, or if your fever worsens or lasts more than three days. If you notice any redness, swelling, new symptoms, or if your cough returns with a rash or headache, these could indicate a serious condition. In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222, as prompt attention is crucial for both adults and children.

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. Quick action 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, it’s always better to be safe and seek assistance if you have any concerns about an overdose.

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 have a child under 12 years old, it's important to consult with a doctor before using this medication. For children aged 12 and older, as well as adults, the recommended dosage is 2 caplets every 4 hours, but you should not exceed 10 caplets in a 24-hour period. Always follow these guidelines to ensure safe use for your child.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. Since older adults may have different health needs and responses to medications, you should always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication. They can help determine the right dosage and monitor for any potential side effects, ensuring that the treatment is safe and effective for you or your loved one.

Renal Impairment

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

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your health situation. They can help monitor your kidney function and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to be cautious when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen. The maximum you should take in a day is 10 caplets, which equals 3,250 mg of acetaminophen. Taking more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours, using other medications that also contain acetaminophen, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product can lead to severe liver damage.

Before using this product, please consult your doctor if you have liver disease. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific health needs and help ensure your safety while using medications.

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 other 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 emotional conditions—or have taken one in the last two weeks, you should not use this medication.

If you are on the blood-thinning medication warfarin, it's essential to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this drug. Always discuss any medications or tests with your healthcare provider 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 25ºC (77ºF). It’s acceptable for the temperature to fluctuate between 15ºC and 30ºC (59ºF to 86ºF), but try to keep it as close to the recommended temperature as possible.

When handling the product, make sure to do so in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Always follow any specific instructions provided for use to ensure safety and effectiveness. If you have any questions about disposal or further handling, please refer to the guidelines provided with your product.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using it. Always keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Quick medical attention is crucial for both adults and children, even if there are no noticeable signs or symptoms.

FAQ

What is Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain & Cough Relief used for?

It is used for the temporary relief of cold and flu symptoms, including minor aches and pains, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, and cough.

What are the active ingredients in this medication?

The active ingredients are acetaminophen, dextromethorphan HBr, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine HCl.

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

You should take 2 caplets every 4 hours, swallowing them whole without crushing, chewing, or dissolving. Do not exceed 10 caplets in 24 hours.

What should I do if I have a sore throat that lasts more than 2 days?

Consult a doctor promptly if your sore throat is severe, persists for more than 2 days, or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting.

Are there any contraindications for using this medication?

Do not use it with any other drug containing acetaminophen or if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).

What should I do in case of an overdose?

Get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Quick medical attention is critical for both adults and children.

Is this medication safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What are the potential liver risks associated with this medication?

This product contains acetaminophen, and taking more than 4,000 mg in 24 hours or with other acetaminophen-containing drugs can lead to severe liver damage.

What should I do if I experience a skin reaction?

If you notice symptoms like skin reddening, blisters, or rash, stop using the product and seek medical help immediately.

What should I do if my symptoms worsen or new symptoms occur?

Stop use and consult a doctor if your pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or lasts more than 7 days.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

Acetaminophen, Dextromethorphan HBr, Guaifenesin, and Phenylephrine HCl are the active ingredients in this formulation. Acetaminophen serves as a pain reliever and fever reducer, while Dextromethorphan HBr acts as a cough suppressant. Guaifenesin functions as an expectorant, aiding in the thinning and loosening of mucus, and Phenylephrine HCl serves as a nasal decongestant. This combination provides relief from nasal and sinus congestion, sinus pressure, pain, headache, and cough. The product is presented in the form of 16 softgels.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold and influenza, including minor aches and pains, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, and cough. It aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, thereby enhancing the productivity of coughs. Additionally, this drug temporarily reduces fever.

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

Dosage and Administration

Adults and children aged 12 years and over are instructed to take 2 caplets every 4 hours as needed. The caplets should be swallowed whole and must not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved to ensure proper release and absorption of the medication. It is important to note that the total dosage should not exceed 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 drug 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.

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

  • History of allergic reactions to this product or any of its ingredients, as this may result in severe allergic responses.

Additionally, this product should be kept out of reach of children, and the recommended dosage should not be exceeded.

Warnings and Precautions

This product contains acetaminophen, which necessitates careful monitoring due to the potential for severe liver damage. The maximum recommended daily dosage is 10 caplets, equating to 3,250 mg of acetaminophen within a 24-hour period. Healthcare professionals should advise patients against exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in a single day, using other medications that also contain acetaminophen concurrently, or consuming three or more alcoholic beverages daily while taking this product.

Acetaminophen is associated with the risk of severe skin reactions. Symptoms indicative of such reactions may include skin reddening, blisters, and rash. Should any of these symptoms manifest, it is imperative to discontinue use immediately and seek medical assistance.

In cases of severe sore throat, particularly if it persists beyond two days or is accompanied by fever, headache, rash, nausea, or vomiting, patients should be instructed to consult a physician without delay.

Healthcare providers should advise patients to discontinue use and seek medical advice if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond seven days, or if fever intensifies or lasts more than three days, medical consultation is warranted. The presence of redness or swelling, the emergence of new symptoms, or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache lasting beyond a reasonable duration may indicate a serious underlying condition requiring further evaluation.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical attention is crucial. Patients should be instructed to contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 without delay, as prompt intervention is essential for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Side Effects

Patients using this product should be aware of several potential adverse reactions, which can be categorized by seriousness and frequency.

Severe adverse reactions include significant liver damage, which may occur if the maximum daily dose of acetaminophen exceeds 4,000 mg, if the product is taken in conjunction with other medications containing acetaminophen, or if the patient consumes three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product. Patients should be vigilant for symptoms of severe skin reactions, which may manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of such a reaction, it is imperative to discontinue use and seek medical assistance immediately.

Common adverse reactions that warrant discontinuation of use and consultation with a healthcare provider include nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness. Additionally, if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists beyond seven days, or if fever intensifies or lasts more than three days, medical advice should be sought. Patients should also be alert for signs of redness or swelling, the emergence of new symptoms, or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by a rash or headache lasting longer than expected, as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Before using this product, patients with pre-existing conditions such as liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, or urinary difficulties due to an enlarged prostate gland should consult a healthcare professional. Furthermore, individuals with a persistent or chronic cough, particularly those associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, should also seek medical advice prior to use. Patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using this product to avoid potential interactions.

Drug Interactions

Concurrent use of this medication with other products containing acetaminophen, whether prescription or nonprescription, is contraindicated due to the risk of acetaminophen overdose and potential hepatotoxicity.

The use of this medication is also contraindicated in patients 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 administered for at least two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI to avoid serious interactions.

Patients taking the anticoagulant warfarin should consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to using this medication. Monitoring of coagulation parameters may be warranted to ensure safety and efficacy.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief (acetaminophen, dextromethorphan hydrobromide, guaifenesin, phenylephrine hydrochloride). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief.
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

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 adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, 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. It is important to assess the potential risks and benefits, as well as any available data regarding fetal outcomes and lactation. Healthcare providers can offer guidance tailored to individual circumstances, ensuring the safety of both the patient and the developing fetus or nursing 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 no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data necessitates careful clinical judgment.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment should exercise caution when using this product, as it contains acetaminophen, which is associated with the risk of severe liver damage. The maximum daily dose of this product is limited to 10 caplets (3,250 mg of acetaminophen) within a 24-hour period. It is critical to note that exceeding 4,000 mg of acetaminophen in 24 hours, using other medications that contain acetaminophen concurrently, or consuming three or more alcoholic drinks daily while using this product may significantly increase the risk of liver damage.

Patients with liver disease are advised to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product to ensure safe usage and to discuss any necessary dosage adjustments or monitoring requirements. Regular assessment of liver function may be warranted in patients with compromised liver function to mitigate potential risks associated with acetaminophen use.

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 crucial for both adults and children, even in the absence of noticeable signs or symptoms.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that the lack of immediate symptoms does not preclude the potential for serious adverse effects. Therefore, vigilance and timely medical evaluation are essential in managing overdose situations effectively.

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 limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the use of the compound in question. Further studies may be necessary to elucidate these aspects of nonclinical toxicology.

Postmarketing Experience

Acetaminophen has been associated with severe skin reactions, which may manifest as skin reddening, blisters, or rash. In the event of a skin reaction, it is advised to discontinue use and seek immediate medical assistance.

Additionally, it is recommended to stop use and consult a healthcare professional if any of the following occur: nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness; worsening pain, nasal congestion, or cough lasting more than 7 days; fever that worsens or persists beyond 3 days; presence of redness or swelling; emergence of new symptoms; or recurrence of cough accompanied by rash or headache lasting for an extended period. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Patient Counseling

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

Patients should be informed 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 be encouraged to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

It is important to caution patients against using this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last two weeks. Patients should be advised to check with a healthcare professional if they are unsure whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Patients with a history of allergic reactions to this product or any of its ingredients should be instructed not to use it. They should also be informed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience nervousness, dizziness, or sleeplessness.

Healthcare providers should advise patients to stop using the product and seek medical advice if pain, nasal congestion, or cough worsens or persists for more than seven days. Additionally, patients should be instructed to contact a doctor if fever worsens or lasts more than three days, or if they notice any redness or swelling. New symptoms that arise should also prompt a consultation with a healthcare professional.

Patients should be made aware that if a cough returns or occurs alongside a rash or persistent headache, they should seek medical attention, as these may indicate a serious condition. It is essential to emphasize that patients must not exceed the recommended dosage while using this product.

Before using this medication, patients should be encouraged to consult a doctor if they have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, thyroid disease, diabetes, difficulty urinating due to an enlarged prostate gland, or a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, particularly if the cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm. Furthermore, patients taking the blood-thinning medication warfarin should be advised to seek guidance from a doctor or pharmacist prior to use.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available upon request. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 25ºC (77ºF). Temporary excursions are permitted between 15ºC and 30ºC (59ºF to 86ºF).

Care should be taken to ensure that the product is kept in its original container to maintain stability and integrity. Special handling requirements should be observed to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures outside the specified range.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a healthcare professional prior to use. It is crucial to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222, as prompt medical attention is essential for both adults and children, even if no symptoms are apparent.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Maximum Strength Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief, 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 Severe Sinus Pressure, Pain and Cough Relief, 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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Primary FDA sources:

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.