acutus tablet - Chlorpheniramine Maleate (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (15mg) medicine

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🏭 Acumen Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 25, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for symptomatic relief of cough and allergy symptoms.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 25, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Severe drowsiness or confusion
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Hallucinations
  • Severe allergic reaction with rash and itching

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is acutus tablet used for?

This medicine is a combination of chlorpheniramine maleate (an antihistamine) and dextromethorphan hydrobromide (a cough suppressant) used to treat dry cough and allergy symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing. It is available as a syrup for oral use.

  • Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine Maleate (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (15mg)
  • Manufacturer: Acumen Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 acutus tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा क्लोरफेनिरामाइन मेलिएट और डेक्सट्रोमेथोर्फन हाइड्रोब्रोमाइड का संयोजन है। इसका उपयोग सूखी खांसी और एलर्जी के लक्षणों जैसे नाक बहना, छींक आना, गले में खुजली और आंखों में पानी आना के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह खांसी को दबाने और एलर्जी को कम करने में मदद करती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में नींद आना, चक्कर आना, मुंह सूखना, जी मिचलाना और धुंधली दृष्टि शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं लेकिन एलर्जी, दौरे, और सांस लेने में कठिनाई हो सकती है। यदि कोई गंभीर लक्षण दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें। खुराक से अधिक न लें। दवा लेने के बाद वाहन चलाने या मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। शराब का सेवन न करें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं तो डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 acutus tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Cough due to cold or allergy","description":"This medicine suppresses dry, irritating cough and relieves associated allergy symptoms such as runny nose and sneezing.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Allergic rhinitis","description":"Chlorpheniramine provides relief from sneezing, rhinorrhea, and itching of the nose or throat.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Common cold","description":"Provides symptomatic relief of cough and nasal congestion associated with the common cold.","evidence":"Established"}]

Off-label uses: []

Primary treatment for: Cough and allergic rhinitis

Also treats: Common cold, Allergic cough, Upper respiratory tract infection

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Chlorpheniramine Maleate (4mg) + Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (15mg)
Brand Nameacutus tablet
ManufacturerAcumen Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassRESPIRATORY
Action Class
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the bottle tightly closed.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2
Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking this medicine.
3
Do not consume alcohol while taking this medicine.
4
Use a measuring cup to ensure accurate dosing.
5
Do not use this medicine for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
6
Keep out of reach of children.
7
Inform your doctor if you have glaucoma, urinary retention, or prostate problems.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Dry cough
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Runny nose
This medicine helps relieve this symptom.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a primary fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionChlorpheniramine maleate is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide is also rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Food may delay the absorption of dextromethorphan but does not significantly affect the extent of absorption.
DistributionChlorpheniramine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. Dextromethorphan is also distributed to the brain and other tissues. Both drugs cross the placenta and are excreted in breast milk.
Protein BindingChlorpheniramine is approximately 70% bound to plasma proteins. Dextromethorphan is about 60-70% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismChlorpheniramine is metabolized in the liver primarily by CYP2D6 and to a lesser extent by CYP3A4. Dextromethorphan is extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP2D6 to dextrorphan, its active metabolite, and by CYP3A4 to a lesser extent.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of chlorpheniramine is approximately 12-15 hours in adults. The elimination half-life of dextromethorphan is about 2-4 hours in extensive metabolizers and up to 24 hours in poor metabolizers.
ExcretionChlorpheniramine and its metabolites are excreted primarily in the urine. Dextromethorphan and its metabolites are also excreted mainly in the urine, with a small amount in feces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of chlorpheniramine is approximately 25-50% due to first-pass metabolism. The oral bioavailability of dextromethorphan is about 10-20% in extensive metabolizers due to extensive first-pass metabolism.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for chlorpheniramine is about 30-60 minutes after oral administration. Dextromethorphan begins to suppress cough within 15-30 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of chlorpheniramine are reached in about 2-6 hours. Dextromethorphan reaches peak plasma levels in about 2-3 hours.
Duration of ActionThe antihistaminic effect of chlorpheniramine lasts about 4-6 hours. The antitussive effect of dextromethorphan lasts about 4-6 hours.

How It Works

This medicine combines two active ingredients with distinct mechanisms. Chlorpheniramine maleate is a first-generation antihistamine that competitively blocks histamine H1 receptors on effector cells, thereby reducing allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching. It also has anticholinergic properties that contribute to dry mouth and drowsiness. Dextromethorphan hydrobromide is a centrally acting cough suppressant that acts on the cough center in the medulla oblongata. It is a non-opioid agent that raises the threshold for cough reflex by reducing the sensitivity of cough receptors in the brain. It does not have analgesic or addictive properties at therapeutic doses.

Mechanism Steps

1
Histamine H1 receptor blockade: Chlorpheniramine binds to H1 receptors on blood vessels and nerve endings, preventing histamine from causing vasodilation, increased permeability, and itching.
2
Anticholinergic action: Chlorpheniramine also blocks muscarinic receptors, reducing secretions and contributing to dry mouth and drowsiness.
3
Central cough suppression: Dextromethorphan acts on the cough center in the medulla to increase the threshold for cough reflex.
4
Sigma-1 receptor agonism: Dextromethorphan also binds to sigma-1 receptors, which may contribute to its antitussive and potential neuroprotective effects.

💡 How to Take acutus tablet

Strength: Each 5 mL of syrup contains chlorpheniramine maleate 4 mg and dextromethorphan hydrobromide 15 mg.

1Shake the bottle well before use.
2Use a measuring cup or spoon to measure the exact dose.
3Take orally with or without food.
4Follow the prescribed dose and frequency.
5Do not exceed the recommended dose.
6Wash the measuring cup after each use.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 5-10 mL orally every 4-6 hours as needed, not to exceed 4 doses in 24 hours. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. This medicine is not recommended for children under 2 years of age. For children 2-6 years, use only under medical supervision.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with renal impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Hepatic ImpairmentUse with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be necessary. Consult your doctor.
Maximum Daily DoseFor adults: maximum 40 mL in 24 hours (providing 32 mg chlorpheniramine and 120 mg dextromethorphan). Do not exceed the recommended dose.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of acutus tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Drowsiness (Common (10-20%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Dry mouth (Common (5-10%))
Sip water or chew sugarless gum. Consult doctor if severe.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Rise slowly from sitting or lying position. Avoid alcohol.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food or milk. Consult doctor if persistent.
Blurred vision (Uncommon (1-5%))
Avoid driving. Consult doctor if persistent.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Serotonin syndrome (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical help if you have agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, or seizures.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if seizures occur.
Severe drowsiness or respiratory depression (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you have extreme sleepiness, slow breathing, or difficulty staying awake.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Hallucinations
Discontinue and seek medical advice.
Blood dyscrasias (e.g., agranulocytosis)
Report unusual bruising, bleeding, or infections to your doctor.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
MAOIs Major
CYP2D6 inhibitors Major
Alcohol Major
CNS depressants Moderate
Anticholinergics Moderate
SSRIs Moderate
Antihypertensives Minor
Levodopa Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine)
  • Alcohol

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CNS depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines, opioids, sedatives)
  • Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, tricyclic antidepressants)
  • SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and the risk of central nervous system depression. It may also impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to chlorpheniramine, dextromethorphan, or any component of the formulation","Use within 14 days of MAOI therapy","Children under 2 years of age","Severe liver disease","Respiratory depression","Acute asthma attack"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating machinery.","Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, urinary retention, or prostatic hypertrophy.","Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased risk of confusion and falls.","Do not use for chronic cough or cough with excessive phlegm unless directed by a doctor.","Consult a doctor if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or are accompanied by fever, rash, or persistent headache."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Chlorpheniramine and dextromethorphan are excreted in breast milk and may cause drowsiness in the infant. Consult your doctor before use during breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, seizures, respiratory depression, and coma. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. There is no specific antidote. Gastric lavage may be considered if within 1-2 hours of ingestion. Monitor vital signs and provide supportive care.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase drowsiness and dizziness. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine for a chronic cough or cough with excessive phlegm unless directed by a doctor. Keep out of reach of children. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and moisture. Do not use after the expiry date.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Use with caution and consider lower doses. Regular monitoring is advised.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are planning to become pregnant. The safety of this medicine during pregnancy is not well established.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Consult your doctor before taking this medicine after surgery, as it may interact with other medications and increase the risk of side effects.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist if you are taking this medicine, as it may cause dry mouth and interact with other medications used during dental procedures.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Stay well hydrated to help thin mucus.
🥗
Use a humidifier to ease cough.
😴
Avoid smoking and exposure to smoke.
💧
Get plenty of rest.
🧘
Practice good hand hygiene to prevent infections.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Avoid strenuous exercise or activities requiring alertness until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness and dizziness.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Drink warm fluids like herbal tea and soup.
Avoid cold drinks and ice cream.
Include honey and ginger in your diet.
Eat light, easily digestible meals.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is advisable to avoid such activities until you know how the medicine affects you. Inform your employer if your job requires alertness.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Stop taking this medicine and consult your doctor if your symptoms do not improve within 7 days, if they worsen, or if you experience any serious side effects. Do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it for a long time without medical advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is not recommended without medical supervision. Prolonged use may lead to tolerance, dependence, and increased risk of side effects such as drowsiness and cognitive impairment. Regular monitoring by a doctor is advised if long-term use is necessary.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Steam inhalation

Helps relieve cough and nasal congestion.

Evidence: Traditional
Honey and warm water

Soothes throat and reduces cough.

Evidence: Limited

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. However, consult your doctor if you are due for any vaccinations while taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of the prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from direct sunlight. If traveling across time zones, adjust dosing schedule as advised by your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 35-year-old woman with allergic cough
She was prescribed this medicine for dry cough and sneezing. She took it as directed and found relief within 2 days. She experienced mild drowsiness but it subsided after a few doses.
💡 Lesson: Taking the medicine as prescribed and avoiding driving helped manage side effects.
👤 A 50-year-old man with common cold
He used this medicine for cough and runny nose. He noticed significant improvement in symptoms but felt sleepy during the day. He adjusted his schedule to take it at bedtime.
💡 Lesson: Timing the dose at bedtime can help manage drowsiness.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine usually starts working within 30-60 minutes after oral administration.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking with food may reduce stomach upset.

Q: Is it safe for children?

A: It is not recommended for children under 2 years. For children above 2 years, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for acutus tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure the common cold.
    Fact: This medicine only provides symptomatic relief; it does not cure the underlying infection.
  • Myth: It is safe to take this medicine with alcohol.
    Fact: Alcohol increases the risk of drowsiness and CNS depression; it should be avoided.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for children under 2 years.
    Fact: It is not recommended for children under 2 years due to risk of serious breathing problems.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Chlorpheniramine + Dextromethorphan syrup (generic)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","composition":"Chlorpheniramine 4 mg + Dextromethorphan 15 mg per 5 mL","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"4-6 hours","sedation":"Moderate to high"},{"medicine":"Diphenhydramine + Dextromethorphan","composition":"Diphenhydramine 12.5 mg + Dextromethorphan 15 mg per 5 mL","onset":"30-60 minutes","duration":"4-6 hours","sedation":"High"}]

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