Cheratussin AC is a prescription cough syrup that contains the active ingredients guaifenesin and codeine. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps loosen mucus and relieve chest congestion. Codeine is an opioid cough suppressant that reduces coughing.
What is Cheratussin AC?
Cheratussin AC is a prescription cough syrup manufactured by Adams Respiratory Therapeutics. It contains 200 mg of guaifenesin and 10 mg of codeine per 5 mL. The AC in the name stands for antitussive (anti-cough) and expectorant, referring to the codeine and guaifenesin.
In addition to the active ingredients, Cheratussin AC contains:
- Purified water
- Sucrose
- Glycerin
- Sodium benzoate
- Sodium citrate
- Citric acid
- D&C Red #33
- FD&C Red #40
- FD&C Yellow #6
- Flavoring
Cheratussin AC is reddish-orange in color and has a sweet, cherry flavor. It is available by prescription only.
Codeine in Cheratussin AC
Yes, Cheratussin AC syrup contains codeine. Each 5 mL of Cheratussin AC contains 10 mg of codeine.
Codeine is an opioid medication used to treat mild to moderate pain. It also has antitussive effects, meaning it suppresses coughing. Codeine works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, which blocks pain signals and suppresses the cough reflex.
The codeine in Cheratussin AC provides its cough-suppressing effects. It helps control coughing associated with conditions like:
- Common cold
- Flu
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Emphysema
- Pertussis (whooping cough)
Codeine needs to be metabolized by the enzyme CYP2D6 in the body into morphine to work effectively. About 7-10% of people have low levels of this enzyme and may not get the full effects from codeine.
Risks and Warnings With Codeine
While codeine is effective as a cough suppressant, it does carry some risks and warnings:
- Respiratory depression – Codeine depresses breathing and can cause dangerous slowing of respiration at high doses.
- Central nervous system depression – Codeine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired cognitive function.
- Dependence and addiction – Codeine has a risk of dependence and addiction with extended use.
- Allergic reactions – Some people may have allergic reactions to codeine.
- Drug interactions – Codeine can interact with many medications, including benzodiazepines, antihistamines, and antidepressants.
Codeine also has greater risks in children and should not be given to children under 12 years old. It’s important that Cheratussin AC only be used as directed by a doctor and for a limited duration of 5-7 days to reduce risks.
Benefits of Guaifenesin in Cheratussin AC
In addition to codeine, Cheratussin AC contains the expectorant guaifenesin. Expectorants help thin mucus secretions and make coughs more productive.
Guaifenesin works by stimulating receptors in the airways. This helps loosen phlegm and mucus, allowing the body to more easily cough it up. The typical adult dosage is 200-400 mg every 4 hours.
The benefits of guaifenesin in Cheratussin AC include:
- Loosening mucus from the airways
- Increasing mucus secretions from respiratory tissue
- Helping clear mucus and phlegm from the lungs
- Making coughs more productive
- Thinning and reducing the viscosity of mucus
This helps clear congestion from conditions like chest colds, bronchitis, flu, and COPD exacerbations. The guaifenesin provides complementary effects to the codeine in Cheratussin AC.
Proper Use of Cheratussin AC
Cheratussin AC should only be used as prescribed by a doctor. The typical dosage for adults and children over 12 years old is 5-10 mL every 4-6 hours as needed. It should not be taken for more than a week.
To get the most benefit, it’s important to follow these proper usage guidelines:
- Measure doses carefully using an oral syringe or other dosing device.
- Take with a full glass of water.
- Avoid driving or operating machinery when starting treatment.
- Shake the bottle well before each use.
- Rinse mouth after each dose to prevent dental cavities.
- Keep track of doses taken to avoid accidental overdose.
- Store at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture.
- Keep the medication out of reach of children.
Do not take more Cheratussin AC than prescribed or take it for longer than recommended. An overdose can cause dangerous side effects. Also avoid taking other cough medications when taking Cheratussin AC.
Risks and Side Effects
Along with the risks of codeine, Cheratussin AC can also cause some side effects including:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Constipation
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Skin rash
Severe side effects that may indicate an overdose or allergic reaction include:
- Severe dizziness
- Slowed breathing
- Extreme drowsiness
- Confusion
- Unusual agitation
- Seizures
Discontinue Cheratussin AC and seek medical help if any severe side effects develop.
Interactions With Other Medications
Cheratussin AC can interact with a variety of prescription and over-the-counter medications. It’s important for doctors and pharmacists to be aware of all medications a patient is taking before prescribing Cheratussin AC.
Types of medications that can cause interactions with Cheratussin AC include:
- Opioid painkillers
- Benzodiazepines
- Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs)
- Muscle relaxants
- Sleep aids
- Antihistamines
- Antibiotics
- Antifungals
- Antivirals
These interactions can enhance sedation, slow breathing, and cause other serious effects. Alcohol should also be avoided when taking Cheratussin AC due to increased sedation.
Who Should Not Take Cheratussin AC
Cheratussin AC should be avoided in certain populations, including:
- Children younger than 12 years old
- Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- People with respiratory disorders like asthma or COPD
- Patients with head injuries or increased intracranial pressure
- People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse
- Patients taking antidepressants, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives
- People with liver or kidney disease
Cheratussin AC also requires dose adjustments in elderly patients to reduce side effects.
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, Cheratussin AC does contain codeine. The codeine provides antitussive effects to suppress coughing. However, codeine also carries risks like respiratory depression, sedation, and addiction. It should be used with caution and only as directed by a physician. The guaifenesin in Cheratussin AC helps loosen mucus and make coughs more productive. Cheratussin AC should not be used long-term or in high doses due to the codeine risks.