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Menthol (By mouth)

Menthol (MEN-thol)

Relieves sore throat and cough due to common cold or allergies.

Brand Name(s):

Vicks Cough Drops, Fisherman's Friend, Diabetic Tussin Cough Drops, Medikoff Drops, Cepacol Sore Throat, Luden's, Robitussin Cough Drops, Thoracol, Halls, Cough Drops, Koldets Cough Suppresant, Leader Cough Drops, Good Neighbor Pharmacy Cough Drops, Olbas Pastilles Maximum Strength, Sunmark Cough Drops

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to menthol.

How to Use This Medicine:

Lozenge

  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.
  • Place the lozenge in your mouth and let it melt slowly. Do not chew or swallow it whole.
  • Do not give the lozenge to infants or children younger than 5 years old.

If a dose is missed:

  • This medicine is to be taken as needed. Follow the directions on the package.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any leftover medicine after you have finished your treatment. You will also need to throw away old medicine after the expiration date has passed.
  • Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have chronic cough, asthma, emphysema, or if you smoke.
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you have severe cough with excessive mucus or severe sore throat with fever, headache, swelling, nausea, vomiting, or trouble breathing.
  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088


Last Updated: 3/4/2012
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.


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