Clear Cough Syrup can cause several side effects, ranging from very common to rare and serious occurrences.[1] The most frequent side effects include drowsiness, inability to concentrate, lassitude (fatigue), dizziness, hypotension (low blood pressure), muscular weakness, and incoordination.[1] Additionally, users may experience nausea, vomiting, or mild dizziness.[5]
Less frequent side effects include:
- Headache, heart palpitations, pale skin, confusion, and back or abdominal pain (which may indicate abnormal red blood cell conditions such as haemolytic anaemia)[1]
- Sore mouth or skin, sore throat, cough, trouble breathing, light-headedness, fever, chills, and body aches (possible abnormal white blood cell, leukopenia)[1]
- Bleeding gums, nosebleeds, rashes, blood in urine, easy bleeding from wounds, bruising, fatigue, and general weakness (possible thrombocytopenia)[1]
- Anorexia (lack of appetite), blurred vision, ringing in the ear (tinnitus), and elation (high spirits)[1]
- Sleep problems (insomnia), upset stomach, diarrhea, dry eyes or mouth or nose, mild skin rash, restlessness (especially in children)[3]
Severe allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.[5] Symptoms include rash, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, severe dizziness, and trouble breathing.[5] Overdose or taking more than the recommended amount of clear cough syrup can lead to increased or serious toxicity such as hallucinations, elevated heart rate, irregular heartbeat, seizures, confusion, coma, or even death.[1][7]
Other rarely reported side effects and warning signs to watch for include:
- Agitation, mental depression, mood changes[4][6]
- Hallucinations, seizure, tremors[6][7]
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat[2][4][6]
- Chest pain or tightness, fast or irregular heartbeat, shallow breathing[2][4][6]
- Pale or yellow skin, itching, loss of appetite, jaundice[3][4]
- Trouble urinating, feeling very tired or weak[6]
This is not a complete list; other side effects or allergic reactions may occur. Always notify your healthcare provider if you notice unexpected symptoms or if common side effects persist or worsen.[5]
References
- [1] CLEAR COUGH® SYRUP Patient Information Leaflet (SAHPRA)
- [2] Codeine/Guaifenesin: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions – WebMD
- [3] Clear Cough PM Multi-Symptom Side Effects – Drugs.com
- [4] Guaifenesin and hydrocodone (oral route) – Side effects – Mayo Clinic
- [5] Clear Cough Syrup – Uses, Side Effects, and More – WebMD
- [6] M-Clear WC: Indications, Side Effects, Warnings – Drugs.com
- [7] Is it Safe to Use Liquid Cough Medicine? – Poison Control
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