From the Guidelines
The combination of Coricidin, Flonase, PRN albuterol, and Tessalon is a reasonable approach for managing respiratory symptoms, but it's crucial to use these medications judiciously and as directed to minimize potential side effects and optimize therapeutic benefits. Coricidin is an over-the-counter cold and flu medication containing antihistamines and decongestants, typically used for short-term symptom relief 1. Flonase (fluticasone) is a nasal steroid spray used daily to manage allergic rhinitis, with typical dosing of 1-2 sprays per nostril once daily, as it is the most effective monotherapy for seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (SAR and PAR) 1. Albuterol is a rescue inhaler used "as needed" (PRN) for acute bronchospasm or asthma symptoms, typically dosed as 1-2 puffs every 4-6 hours as needed, with guidelines suggesting its use for quick relief in asthma management 1. Tessalon (benzonatate) is a prescription cough suppressant that works by numbing stretch receptors in the lungs, usually dosed at 100-200mg three times daily.
Key considerations for using these medications together include:
- Maintaining regular use of Flonase for prevention of allergic rhinitis symptoms, as it has been shown to be effective for SAR and PAR 1.
- Using albuterol only when needed for breathing difficulties, as it provides quick relief for acute bronchospasm or asthma symptoms 1.
- Following prescribed schedules for Coricidin and Tessalon to avoid overuse or potential side effects, such as sedation from antihistamines in Coricidin or numbness of the throat and mouth from Tessalon.
- Being aware of the potential for interactions or cumulative side effects when using multiple medications, especially considering the antihistamine component in Coricidin and the bronchodilatory effects of albuterol.
Given the most recent and highest quality evidence, the focus should be on using Flonase regularly for allergic rhinitis prevention, albuterol as needed for acute asthma symptoms, and being cautious with the use of Coricidin and Tessalon to avoid unnecessary side effects 1. This approach prioritizes the management of chronic conditions like allergic rhinitis and asthma while minimizing the risks associated with over-the-counter and prescription medications.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Medication Overview
- Coricidin is a medication that contains pseudoephedrine, which is used to treat symptoms of the common cold and flu, sinusitis, asthma, and bronchitis 2.
- Flonase is a nasal spray that contains fluticasone propionate, a corticosteroid used to treat allergic rhinitis and other respiratory conditions.
- Albuterol is a short-acting β2 agonist used to treat asthma and other respiratory conditions, often used as needed (prn) 3.
- Tessalon is a medication that contains benzonatate, used to treat coughs.
Asthma Management
- Asthma exacerbations can be triggered by upper respiratory tract infections, and treatment with inhaled corticosteroids plus long-acting beta(2)-agonists may reduce the number of exacerbations associated with these infections 4.
- Short-acting β2 agonists, such as albuterol, are effective as bronchodilators for asthma in the acute setting 3.
- Systemic corticosteroids are the mainstay therapy for asthma exacerbations, and unless there is a contraindication, the oral route is favored 3.
Symptom Management
- In end-of-life care, proactive regimens that prevent symptoms should be used, and medications such as opiates and anticholinergic medications can be used to manage symptoms like pain, dyspnea, and oropharyngeal secretions 5.
- Palliative symptom management approaches disease in a holistic manner, addressing not only the physical aspect of symptoms but also the psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions of suffering for total symptom relief 6.