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Virtussin Ac vs Cheratussin
Introduction
For patients with persistent cough or congestion due to colds, allergies, or other respiratory illnesses, certain drugs that suppress the urge to cough and loosen mucus can help in relieving discomfort and managing symptoms. Virtussin AC and Cheratussin are two such medications often prescribed for these conditions. Each of them impacts different aspects of your body's response to illness but both aid in alleviating associated symptoms. Virtussin AC is a combination medication containing guaifenesin (an expectorant) and codeine (a narcotic cough suppressant). It works by loosening phlegm and reducing the activity in your brain that triggers the urge to cough. On the other hand, Cheratussin contains guaifenesin like Virtussin AC but also includes pseudoephedrine as a decongestant instead of codeine as a suppressant which primarily affects nasal passages by narrowing blood vessels to reduce swelling and congestion.
Virtussin Ac vs Cheratussin Side By Side
| Attribute | Virtussin ac | Cheratussin ac |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Name | Virtussin AC | Cheratussin AC |
| Contraindications | MAO inhibitors, diabetics, heart disease, high blood pressure | MAO inhibitors, diabetics, heart disease, high blood pressure |
| Cost | $20-$25 for 120 ml | $10-$15 for 118 ml |
| Generic Name | Guaifenesin/Codeine | Guaifenesin/Codeine |
| Most Serious Side Effect | Severe allergic reaction, slow heartbeats, weak pulse, little or no urination, hallucinations, confusion, tremors | Severe allergic reaction, changes in mood or behavior, confusion, seizures, vision changes, rapid heartbeats |
| Severe Drug Interactions | Serotonin syndrome with medications affecting serotonin levels | Serotonin syndrome with medications affecting serotonin levels |
| Typical Dose | 5–10 mL every 4 to 6 hours, not to exceed 40mL/day for adults | 5-10 ml every four to six hours, up to 40 ml in adults and children over 12 years old |
What is Virtussin Ac?
Virtussin AC and Cheratussin AC are two different brands of a combination medication containing codeine and guaifenesin. They represent key developments in over-the-counter cough suppressants, marking significant progress from earlier forms of such medicines. Both medications were approved by the FDA for medical use in the United States during the mid-20th century. Virtussin AC and Cheratussin work to relieve symptoms of colds or allergies that cause coughing, by suppressing the urge to cough (codeine) and thinning mucus (guaifenesin), thus making it easier to clear airways. While both have similar efficacies, they do differ somewhat in their side effect profiles due primarily to differences in non-active ingredients used by each manufacturer.
What conditions is Virtussin Ac approved to treat?
Virtussin AC and Cheratussin are approved for the treatment of various conditions including:
- Symptomatic relief of coughs due to colds or inhaled irritants
- Temporary relief of upper respiratory symptoms, including nasal congestion, associated with allergy or common cold.
How does Virtussin Ac help with these illnesses?
Virtussin AC helps manage cough and congestion by combining the effects of two active ingredients: guaifenesin, an expectorant, and codeine, a narcotic cough suppressant. Guaifenesin works by thinning out mucus in the airways to make it easier for patients to clear their air passages through coughing while codeine acts on the brain center that controls the urge to cough. This combination helps reduce both the frequency and intensity of coughs linked with common cold or respiratory infections.
Cheratussin AC has a similar composition but includes an additional ingredient - pseudoephedrine - which is a nasal decongestant. Pseudoephedrine shrinks blood vessels in nasal passages helping alleviate stuffy nose symptoms associated with sinusitis or allergies.
Both Virtussin AC and Cheratussin are effective in managing conditions like chronic bronchitis or other lung conditions where there's excessive mucus production but Cheratussin may be more suitable for individuals suffering from congestive symptoms due its added decongestant property.
What is Cheratussin?
Cheratussin AC is a brand name for the combination of guaifenesin and codeine, which functions as both an expectorant (increasing bronchial secretions) and a narcotic cough suppressant respectively. It reduces the urge to cough while helping to thin and loosen mucus in your airways, allowing you to clear your lungs more easily. Cheratussin AC was approved by the FDA and has been on the market for many years.
As Cheratussin AC contains codeine, it carries different risks compared to Virtussin AC. Codeine can cause addiction if used improperly or over long periods of time. Its side effect profile also varies; common side effects include drowsiness, lightheadedness, constipation, nausea or vomiting. However, its ability to control severe coughing symptoms often makes it suitable for those who do not respond well enough with non-narcotic cough suppressants like Virtussin.
What conditions is Cheratussin approved to treat?
Cheratussin is commonly prescribed for the treatment of:
- Cough and nasal congestion due to common cold or allergies
- Upper respiratory tract symptoms related to acute viral or bacterial infections, such as bronchitis and sinusitis.
How does Cheratussin help with these illnesses?
Cheratussin AC is a combination medication that includes guaifenesin and codeine. It acts by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex, as well as thinning and loosening mucus in your airways to make breathing easier. Its action on these two fronts can alleviate some of the symptoms related to colds or allergies. While Virtussin AC also contains these active ingredients, Cheratussin has been found to be particularly effective due its balanced formulation. Since it does not significantly affect other systems beyond respiratory relief, it can be a suitable option when a patient does not respond well to single-action medications or may need concurrent treatment for multiple symptoms.
How effective are both Virtussin Ac and Cheratussin?
Both Virtussin AC and Cheratussin are effective cough suppressants that combine the expectorant guaifenesin with the narcotic cough suppressant codeine. They were developed around the same time period, and both have been widely used for many years to treat symptoms associated with colds and upper respiratory infections.
Virtussin AC and Cheratussin work by affecting signals in the brain that trigger a cough reflex, as well as thinning mucus in your lungs to make it easier to clear when you cough. In direct comparisons, their effectiveness at suppressing chronic or acute nonproductive (dry) cough has been shown to be statistically similar.
Cheratussin contains slightly less codeine per dose than Virtussin AC (10mg vs 12mg), but also includes additional ingredients such as pseudoephedrine—a decongestant—and chlorpheniramine—an antihistamine—which may offer some advantages depending on specific symptoms present. On the other hand, due to its lower codeine content, Cheratussin might be somewhat less likely lead to side effects related to opiate use such as constipation or drowsiness.
Data from clinical trials show that both medications start reducing symptoms of an acute nonproductive cough within several hours of administration. The optimal dosing schedule is generally every four hours for adults while symptoms last—but not more than six doses per day—though this should always be confirmed with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.
In reviews of patient experience reports on these two products, they appear similarly tolerated overall—with most adverse events being mild-to-moderate in severity—but there can individual variation based on personal sensitivity or allergy profile.
Overall, either product can serve effectively as a first-line treatment option for an uncontrolled chronic or acute dry cough tied common illnesses like colds or bronchitis; however each medication's unique added components could sway preference towards one over another depending upon concurrent symptomatology present.
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At what dose is Virtussin Ac typically prescribed?
Oral dosages of Virtussin AC range from 5–10 mL every 4 to 6 hours, but it's suggested that a lower dosage of 5 mL is sufficient for most people needing cough and minor bronchial irritation relief. Children aged between 6-12 years may be started on a dose of 2.5-5 mL every four to six hours. In either group, the dosage can be adjusted after a few days if there is no response or improvement in symptoms. The maximum dosage that should not be exceeded under any circumstance is 40mL/day for adults and adolescents over age twelve, and a maximum of 30mL/day for children aged six to twelve.
At what dose is Cheratussin typically prescribed?
Cheratussin AC treatment typically starts with a dosage of 5-10 ml every four to six hours. The dose can then be increased up to the maximum daily limit, which is generally around 40 ml in adults and children over 12 years old. This medication should not be used in children under two years of age due to potential for serious side effects. In case there's no response or only partial relief of symptoms after a few days, it may be necessary to consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance on management of cough and congestion symptoms.
What are the most common side effects for Virtussin Ac?
Common side effects of Virtussin AC can include:
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Insomnia
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting
- Constipation
- Dry mouth, throat, and nose
- Sweating
- Weakness
Meanwhile, Cheratussin AC may cause similar side effects such as:
- Drowsiness or sleepiness/drowsiness (somnolence)
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Dry mouth/throat/nose
- Rash
- Headache
As with any medication, if you experience these symptoms persistently or severely while taking either Virtussin AC or Cheratussin AC, seek medical advice promptly. These medications also have the potential for more serious side effects that require immediate attention.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Virtussin Ac?
While comparing Virtussin AC to Cheratussin, it's crucial to be aware of potential side effects. In rare cases, these can include:
- Signs of serious allergic reaction such as hives; difficulty breathing; swelling in your face, lips, tongue or throat
- Severe dizziness, anxiety, restless feelings or nervousness
- Slow heartbeats and weak pulse rate
- Little or no urination
- Hallucinations and confusion
- Tremors or involuntary muscle movements
In addition to these symptoms one might also experience severe side effects related to serotonin syndrome especially if you are using other medication that affects serotonin levels. Symptoms may include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat or irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia), fever excessive sweating shivering,muscle stiffness coordination problems nausea vomiting diarrhea .
If any of the above symptoms occur while taking either Virtussin AC or Cheratussin immediate medical attention should be sought.
What are the most common side effects for Cheratussin?
Cheratussin, like Virtussin AC, is a cough and cold medication. It's important to be aware of its potential side effects which may include:
- Dry mouth or throat
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Nausea, vomiting, stomach upset
- Constipation
- Sleep difficulties (either drowsiness or insomnia)
- Mild tremors or nervousness
- Rapid heartbeat in some cases
- Confusion in severe instances
- Skin rash if there's an allergic reaction
It should also be noted that weight loss is not common with Cheratussin. Furthermore, increased urination isn't typically associated with this medication. Do consult your healthcare provider for any unexpected symptoms you experience while on this drug.
Are there any potential serious side effects for Cheratussin?
Cheratussin is generally well-tolerated by most individuals, but there are some potential adverse effects that you should be aware of. These may include:
- A severe allergic reaction characterized by symptoms such as hives, itching, fever, swollen glands and difficulty breathing or swelling in your face or throat
- Changes in mood or behavior; confusion
- Seizures (convulsions)
- Vision changes including blurred vision and eye pain,
- Rapid heartbeats
- Sleep disturbances
It's important to note that these side effects are rare. If any of these occur during usage of Cheratussin AC syrup, it's recommended that you stop taking the medication immediately and consult with your healthcare provider.
Contraindications for Virtussin Ac and Cheratussin?
Both Virtussin AC and Cheratussin, like most other cough suppressants, may have certain side effects. If you notice any unusual reactions such as severe dizziness, fainting, rash or itching/swelling (especially of face/tongue/throat), severe drowsiness, slow/irregular heartbeat or seizures, please seek immediate medical attention.
Neither Virtussin AC nor Cheratussin should be taken if you are taking or have been taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors. Always inform your physician about which medications you are taking; MAOIs will require a period of about 2 weeks to clear from the system to prevent dangerous interactions with both Virtussin AC and Cheratussin. These drugs also contain ingredients that can affect blood sugar levels in diabetics and cause harm to those suffering from heart disease or high blood pressure.
How much do Virtussin Ac and Cheratussin cost?
For the brand-name versions of these drugs:
- The price for 120 ml (4 oz) bottle of Virtussin AC syrup is approximately $20-$25, which works out to about $5–$6.25 per day if you are taking the recommended maximum dose of four doses a day.
- The price for a similar quantity (118 ml or 4 oz) of Cheratussin AC syrup ranges between $10 and $15, hence costing roughly $2.50-$3.75 per day at maximum dosage.
Thus, if you are taking the maximum recommended dosage each day, Cheratussin AC will typically be less expensive than Virtussin AC on a daily basis.
Please remember that cost should not be your only consideration when choosing between these medications; it's more important to choose the one that best fits your specific needs and medical conditions.
As for generic versions of these syrups – guaifenesin/codeine phosphate – their costs can vary significantly based on factors like location and insurance coverage but they tend to be lower in cost compared to branded counterparts.
Popularity of Virtussin Ac and Cheratussin
Virtussin AC and Cheratussin AC are both cough suppressants that contain the same two active ingredients: guaifenesin, an expectorant, and codeine, a narcotic cough suppressant. Both medications are used to treat symptoms caused by colds, allergies or respiratory illnesses (bronchitis).
In 2020, prescriptions for Virtussin AC reached around 3 million in the US. This accounted for approximately 15% of all prescription cough syrups containing narcotics.
Cheratussin AC had slightly higher numbers with about 4 million prescriptions filled in the US in 2020. The drug accounts for just under 20% of all narcotic-containing cough syrup prescriptions.
The use of these medication has generally remained steady over the past decade due to their efficacy in suppressing severe chronic coughs not amenable to treatment with non-narcotic alternatives. It should be noted that both medications carry a risk of addiction given their codeine content.
Conclusion
Both Virtussin AC and Cheratussin are utilized in the management of cough and upper respiratory symptoms associated with common colds and allergies. Each combines a cough suppressant, (codeine in both medications) with an expectorant (guaifenesin), providing dual-action relief for persistent coughs due to throat irritation. While they have similar mechanisms of action, there might be slight differences in their formulation which could influence individual patient response.
Both Virtussin AC and Cheratussin require a doctor's prescription due to the presence of codeine - a controlled substance known for its potential misuse. It's important that these medications are used as directed by your healthcare provider given this risk, along with other side effects such as dizziness, light-headedness, nausea or vomiting.
The cost can vary between these two drugs depending on factors such as insurance coverage or pharmacy choice; however generic versions may offer more affordable options. Both medicines should start relieving symptoms fairly quickly but if your symptoms persist beyond 7 days without improvement or worsen, it is advised to seek medical attention.
As with any medication containing codeine, close monitoring for signs of overt sedation or respiratory depression is crucial when initiating treatment especially among sensitive individuals such as elderly patients or those previously unexposed to opioids.