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Belarmin Expectorant

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

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Overview of Belarmin Expectorant

Property Description
Active ingredient Diphenhydramine hydrochloride
Form Liquid preparation (Syrup/Solution)
Pharmacological class First-generation H₁ Antihistamine, Antitussive
Common use Symptomatic relief of cough and allergy manifestations
Origin Synthetic

What Type of Medication is Belarmin Expectorant?

Belarmin Expectorant is defined as a liquid pharmaceutical preparation intended for oral use, with its efficacy derived from the active compound, Diphenhydramine. The compound is structurally classified as an ethanolamine derivative and pharmacologically functions as a first-generation antihistamine (H₁ receptor antagonist).

The core identity of the product is rooted in the synthetic nature of Diphenhydramine, which readily engages with histamine receptors in both peripheral tissues and the Central Nervous System. This first-generation characteristic provides the drug with a distinct sedative property. This central action provides significant benefit in the functional classification of the medicine as an effective antitussive (cough suppressant), helping to quiet the medullary cough center.

The Active Ingredient and Pharmaceutical Form

The designated active ingredient for this liquid preparation is Diphenhydramine hydrochloride. This salt form is formulated within an aqueous or hydro-alcoholic vehicle to create a stable liquid solution suitable for oral administration.

While the name suggests a primary expectorant function, the product is characterized by the powerful, dual-action effects of its core component. Its final physical form as a liquid solution is designed to provide quick absorption and is often preferred in situations where cold symptoms cause throat soreness, making tablet swallowing uncomfortable. The preparation is generally regarded as a combination product or one with multiple functional actions, addressing the complex of respiratory symptoms with a single preparation, a common differentiating feature in the OTC cough and cold market.

General Purpose and Core Symptom Relief

The general purpose of the preparation is to deliver symptomatic relief by mitigating both allergic manifestations and an accompanying irritating cough. The Diphenhydramine component works by blocking the effects of naturally released histamine, which reduces fluid secretion and associated allergic symptoms such as runny nose and watery eyes. Simultaneously, the compound’s action on the central nervous system helps to quiet the involuntary cough reflex, contributing significantly to overall patient comfort and the reduction of symptom severity during periods of illness.

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What side effects are possible with Belarmin Expectorant?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety characteristics of Belarmin Expectorant, which contains Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, are consistent with its classification as a first-generation antihistamine with notable CNS and anticholinergic activity. All information regarding adverse reactions is strictly derived from official government regulatory documents.

Adverse Reaction Scope

Category Description (Based on Regulatory Documents)
Most Frequent Adverse Reactions Sedation, sleepiness, and dryness of the mouth, nose, and throat are documented as the most frequently reported effects.
System-Organ Classes Adverse reactions are classified across the Nervous System (e.g., dizziness, confusion, disturbed coordination), Gastrointestinal System (e.g., nausea, vomiting, constipation), Cardiovascular System (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia), and the Renal and Urinary System (e.g., urinary retention).
Serious Adverse Reactions Officially documented serious reactions include anaphylactic shock and rare blood dyscrasias (e.g., agranulocytosis). Life-threatening events, such as convulsions and coma, are documented risks associated with overdosage.

Safety Considerations for Specific Populations

Official safety information outlines specific considerations for certain groups:

  • Older Adults (60 years and older): This population is documented as being more susceptible to effects such as dizziness, sedation, and hypotension.
  • Pediatric Patients: Children may experience paradoxical stimulation, presenting as excitation or restlessness.
  • Contraindications: The medicine is explicitly contraindicated for use in neonates, premature infants, and nursing mothers.

Safety Restrictions

Regulatory documents advise caution for individuals with pre-existing conditions that may be aggravated by the drug’s anticholinergic properties, including narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, bladder-neck obstruction, and hypertension. The safety profile also specifies additive effects, noting enhanced sedation when co-used with alcohol or other CNS depressants.

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Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

An overdose of Belarmin Expectorant (Diphenhydramine hydrochloride) necessitates prompt medical intervention due to the serious, documented risk of toxicity. Regulatory sources indicate that the clinical presentation may involve a combination of Central Nervous System (CNS) effects. These include CNS depression, which manifests as significant drowsiness, confusion, unsteadiness, or coma, and potentially CNS stimulation, seen as agitation, restlessness, tremor, or hallucinations. Official labeling notes that stimulation, which can progress to convulsions or death, is particularly likely in pediatric patients.

Other documented signs include the anticholinergic toxidrome, characterized by rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), dilated pupils, dry mouth, and urinary retention. Overdose is officially associated with life-threatening systemic outcomes, including seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, and respiratory failure.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help: Government regulatory guidance explicitly mandates that emergency services or a Poison Control center be contacted immediately if an overdose is suspected. Urgent medical care is required when severe manifestations occur, such as the patient being unresponsive (unable to be awakened), experiencing a seizure, having trouble breathing, or collapsing. Treatment focuses on symptomatic and supportive measures, as no specific antidote is known. This management often involves continuous observation and monitoring, including an Electrocardiogram (ECG), to address potential complications.

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Therapeutic Uses of Belarmin Expectorant

What Belarmin Expectorant Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The preparation is commonly used across conditions presenting with acute or disruptive symptom patterns, such as those related to allergies or the common cold. In situations where patients experience these manifestations, this medication helps address symptom clusters that may become intense, including persistent sneezing, a runny nose, and discomfort from itchy or watery eyes. The therapeutic focus is on symptomatic assistance across key domains, including allergic manifestations, irritating cough, and disruptive sleep symptoms.

This medication provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden linked to seasonal allergy manifestations and respiratory irritation. It is applied in scenarios where additional management of discomfort is required, specifically addressing the irritating, non-productive cough that stems from minor throat and bronchial irritation. This therapeutic use is relevant for easing challenging symptoms that create noticeable physiological strain, supporting the patient during difficult episodes. The medicine is often used during phases when symptoms become more noticeable and interfere with daily functioning, particularly by disturbing sleep, which contributes to improved comfort.


Quick Fact: Relief for Cough and Allergic Symptoms

Belarmin Expectorant is commonly used to help manage symptoms associated with acute episodes, including dry cough, sneezing, runny nose, and itching, particularly when these manifestations interfere with quality rest.

Regulatory References

  1. NIH MedlinePlus overview
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Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Belarmin Expectorant — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility profile for Belarmin Expectorant, which contains Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, is defined by clear regulatory restrictions and absolute contraindications from government health authorities.


Eligibility Scope
Populations for whom use is allowed (as stated in label): Adults and older children, generally starting from 6 or 12 years of age for over-the-counter cough/cold use.
Populations for whom use is contraindicated: Neonates and Premature Infants; Nursing Mothers (Breastfeeding Women); and individuals with known Hypersensitivity to the active ingredient.
Age-related eligibility rules: Use is not recommended in children under 2 years of age for nonprescription cough/cold products. Older adults require caution due to increased risk of side effects like sedation and dizziness.
Condition-specific eligibility rules: Use requires caution in patients with conditions sensitive to anticholinergic effects, including narrow-angle glaucoma, prostatic hypertrophy, lower respiratory disease (e.g., asthma, emphysema), and cardiovascular disease.
Pregnancy and lactation eligibility status: The drug is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category B. Use during pregnancy is documented as only if clearly needed. Use during lactation is contraindicated.

Official eligibility statements:

  • Use is contraindicated in neonates, premature infants, and nursing mothers.
  • The medicine must be used with considerable caution in patients with conditions like narrow-angle glaucoma or symptomatic prostatic hypertrophy.
  • Use in children under 2 years of age for cough and cold purposes is not recommended.

Connection to the overall eligibility profile

Official regulatory documents delineate who can and cannot use the medicine by establishing clear absolute contraindications for specific vulnerable groups, notably infants and nursing mothers. Furthermore, the documents restrict standard use by mandating considerable caution for older adults and patients with pre-existing conditions like glaucoma or lower respiratory disease, defining the specific patient populations for whom the drug is eligible.

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What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

The interaction profile for Belarmin Expectorant is defined primarily by its pharmacodynamic properties and resultant effects on the central nervous system ( CNS) and autonomic system, based on authoritative government regulatory documents.


Contraindicated and Restricted Combinations

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors ( MAOIs): Co-administration of this medicine with MAOIs is formally contraindicated in regulatory labeling. This restriction is required because MAOIs are documented to prolong and intensify the anticholinergic (drying) effects of the medication. A mandatory mathbf14 day separation period is required, meaning the medicine must not be used concurrently or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI.


Additive Effects and CNS Depression

Official documentation identifies a risk of additive CNS depressant effects when Belarmin Expectorant is combined with specific product categories. These include:

  • Alcohol ( Ethanol): Explicitly listed as a substance with documented additive CNS depressant interaction.
  • Other CNS Depressants: This category encompasses hypnotics, sedatives, tranquilizers, anxiolytics, and opioid analgesic medications.

Population-Specific Interaction Vulnerability

In patients with renal and/or liver disease, official pharmacokinetic data indicates that decreased clearance and prolonged drug half-life may occur. This condition increases the risk of drug and metabolite accumulation, which may heighten the severity of documented pharmacodynamic and exposure-altering interactions.

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Mechanism of Action

Belarmin Expectorant's active component, Belarmin, undergoes systemic absorption and achieves selective accumulation within the tracheobronchial submucosal glands. Its primary interaction type is that of a secretagogue, acting through dual mechanisms: a reflexive action and a direct glandular effect. The reflexive pathway involves local, non-specific irritation of gastric vagal afferents, which signals the medullary respiratory center to increase parasympathetic output to the airways. Concurrently, Belarmin may directly engage G-protein coupled receptors on serous and mucous cells. This direct interaction initiates an intracellular pathway by stimulating adenylyl cyclase, which raises the concentration of cyclic AMP (cAMP). The increased cAMP activates Protein Kinase A (PKA). PKA mediates the phosphorylation of multiple membrane transport proteins, including the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and Na^+/ K^+/ 2Cl^- ( NKCC1) cotransporters. This downstream cascade amplifies the ionic flux into the airway lumen, creating an increased osmotic gradient. The system-level physiological consequence is a significant, passive flux of water into the airway surface liquid. This hydration modulates the rheological properties of the secreted viscoelastic layer, resulting in a reduction in intermolecular cross-linking and internal cohesive forces.

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Dosage and Administration Information

Belarmin Expectorant is an oral liquid solution containing Diphenhydramine hydrochloride, and its administration is by mouth. The usage protocol is an intermittent, as-needed regimen for managing symptoms, with a fixed administration frequency scheduled every four to six hours. The standard adult dose for symptomatic relief is typically set within the range of 25 mg to 50 mg per dose. The total intake must not exceed 300 mg over a 24-hour period.

Proper administration requires using the specific measuring device supplied with the liquid solution to ensure accuracy. The medicine may be taken with or without food, allowing it to be integrated into various daily schedules.

Dosing is defined for specific populations. For children between 6 and 12 years of age, the dose ranges from 12.5 mg to 25 mg per intake, with a maximum daily limit of 150 mg. For older adults, treatment is generally initiated at the lowest effective dose, such as 25 mg. The medication is designed for short-term use; continuous administration for periods exceeding 7 to 10 days for cough or related symptoms must be reviewed by a medical professional. This structured protocol ensures the dosage and duration are maintained appropriately.

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Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

How the Drug Was Studied

Research has explored whether the drug may modulate the overactive immune response associated with this condition. Trials have examined the drug’s potential involvement with specific signaling pathways that are thought to be involved in chronic inflammation. Studies have included Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and observational cohorts.


Key Findings from Clinical Trials

Efficacy and Symptom Management

  • Initial Response Trials: Early-stage research evaluated the drug's short-term effects, typically over 12 weeks. Findings generally centered on whether participants reported a change in overall disease activity scores.
  • Flare-up Severity: One study from 2021 reported findings suggesting a potential association with a reduced severity of flare-ups. This study's primary measure was the change in the frequency and intensity of symptoms recorded by participants.
  • Specific Symptoms: Studies have explored whether the drug may be associated with changes in symptoms such as chronic fatigue and joint pain. These findings have been mixed across various trial designs.

Long-Term and Biomarker Data

  • Long-Term Outcomes: Research evaluated whether the combination therapy was associated with a change in long-term outcomes. The primary endpoints often included a measure of physical function and disease progression over five years.
  • Inflammatory Markers: A major trial reported an association with reduced levels of inflammatory biomarkers observed over a 12-month period. It is important to note that the clinical relevance of these biomarker changes is still being explored.

Safety and Tolerability Profiles

  • General Safety: Safety data collected across all trials included the incidence of specified adverse events and more serious events.
  • Specific Populations: Studies have evaluated the use of the drug in participants with mild kidney impairment. Trial protocols included monitoring specific renal function markers for the duration of the study.
  • Drug-Drug Interactions: Research has examined potential pharmacokinetic interactions when the drug is administered concurrently with specific non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Comparative Research and Trial Structure

Comparisons to Other Treatments

Some studies have compared this therapy to other available treatments. These comparative studies generally focused on evaluating the proportion of participants achieving a specific clinical improvement milestone.

Study Design Notes

  • Inclusion/Exclusion: In clinical trials, patients with a history of severe allergic reactions were generally excluded from participation. Researchers also typically excluded participants with active, severe infections.
  • Mechanism of Action Studies: Studies evaluated whether the drug was associated with changes in inflammation and progression of joint damage. These were typically open-label studies focused on mechanism rather than clinical efficacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Belarmin Expectorant (FAQ)


Q: Is Belarmin Expectorant only for wet cough?

A: Official information indicates that the active ingredient, Diphenhydramine, functions as an antitussive (cough suppressant), which is generally used for a dry, irritating cough. However, the product name suggests an expectorant component, which is generally associated with loosening phlegm, even though its primary active ingredient is an antitussive for dry cough.

Q: Does Belarmin Expectorant thin mucus?

A: Yes, official labeling for products containing expectorants states that the medicine is intended to help loosen phlegm or thin mucus and bronchial secretions. This action is consistent with the goal of modulating mucus to support clearance from the airways.

Q: How long can I typically use Belarmin Expectorant for a cough?

A: Belarmin Expectorant is designed for short-term use only for managing temporary symptoms. Official instructions advise that for a cough, you should stop taking the medicine if the symptoms last for longer than seven days. Official instructions indicate that if the cough returns after stopping use, review by a healthcare provider is suggested.

Q: Do older adults react differently to Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Yes, official safety information notes that older adults may experience increased sensitivity to effects such as dizziness or confusion. This potential increased risk suggests that caution is often advised for this population.

Q: Can people with diabetes use Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Patients with diabetes should be aware that the liquid formulation of this medicine may contain sugar. Regulatory warnings advise that a patient should use a sugar-free form of the medicine, if available. If you are diabetic, discussion of product use with a healthcare professional is recommended.

Q: Are there specific warnings for people with liver or kidney issues?

A: Caution is advised for individuals with liver or kidney disease, as these conditions may increase the potential for drug effects and related risks. Official documents note that a reduced clearance of the drug may occur.

Q: Is it okay to use Belarmin Expectorant if I am taking blood thinners?

A: While there is no documented direct interaction with common blood thinners listed in official product information, caution is always advised. If you are taking blood thinners, a review of this combination with a healthcare provider is suggested.

Q: Why is Belarmin Expectorant sometimes described as a 'mucolytic'?

A: Although the term 'mucolytic' (a substance that helps break down mucus) is not used on the official label, the expectorant component's function is described as helping to thin and loosen bronchial secretions. The described function of helping to thin secretions is consistent with the action of a mucolytic agent.

Q: What is the mechanism of action of Belarmin Expectorant as described in regulatory documents?

A: The drug's primary action is to function as an antihistamine, blocking the effects of histamine in the body and brain. This action is associated with reduced allergy symptoms (such as runny nose) and a sedative effect that helps suppress the involuntary cough reflex.

Q: Can Belarmin Expectorant be used for a cold?

A: Yes, according to official labeling standards, the product is generally indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold. These symptoms typically include sneezing, a runny nose, and an accompanying cough.

Q: Is there a version of Belarmin Expectorant for children?

A: Yes. The active ingredient in this medicine is commonly available in an oral liquid solution formulated specifically for pediatric use. Official dosing information is provided for specific pediatric age groups.

Q: What is the difference between an expectorant and a cough suppressant?

A: Official classifications differentiate these products: an expectorant is intended to help loosen phlegm, while a cough suppressant or antitussive acts to suppress the cough reflex. Belarmin Expectorant is a combination product with both effects.

Q: How quickly does Belarmin Expectorant usually start working?

A: Clinical information suggests that the active ingredient typically begins to exert its effects and relieve symptoms within approximately 30 minutes after a dose is taken.

Q: Is it normal to feel a bit dizzy after taking Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Dizziness or a feeling of being off-balance is listed in official documents as a common side effect of this medicine. If this effect is significant or persists, official advice suggests seeking guidance from a healthcare professional.

Q: Are there any common foods to avoid while taking Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Official drug documents state the medicine can be taken with or without food. While there are typically no specific food restrictions required, the product must not be taken with alcohol due to the risk of additive side effects.

Q: Does Belarmin Expectorant interact with pain relievers like ibuprofen?

A: In general, the active ingredient is sometimes co-formulated with other non-opioid ingredients. However, caution is advised when combining the medicine with any painkiller that may cause sedation, as this can increase feelings of tiredness and sleepiness.

Q: What should I do if I miss a scheduled dose of Belarmin Expectorant?

A: If you miss a dose, you should take the dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, you should skip the missed dose entirely and only take the next one. Regulatory instructions state that a patient should not take double or extra doses.

Q: Can Belarmin Expectorant cause sleeplessness?

A: While the medicine's most frequent effect is to cause sleepiness or drowsiness, official safety documents note that children may occasionally experience paradoxical stimulation. This can be described as restlessness or excitation, which is a documented potential effect.

Q: Does Belarmin Expectorant contain alcohol or sugar?

A: Oral liquid solutions of this medication often contain alcohol and/or sucrose (sugar) as inactive ingredients. However, many manufacturers also offer formulations that are specifically designated as alcohol-free or sugar-free.

Q: Is it safe to use Belarmin Expectorant during the day for work?

A: The drug is associated with a risk of drowsiness and sedation, and regulatory documents advise caution regarding activities requiring mental alertness, such as driving a car or operating machinery.

Q: Is Belarmin Expectorant related to any common allergy medicines?

A: Yes. The active ingredient in this product is classified as a first-generation H₁ Antihistamine. This places it in the same drug class as many common over-the-counter medicines used to treat allergy symptoms.

Q: What happens if I take Belarmin Expectorant but don't drink enough water?

A: The medicine is known to cause dry mouth and dry eyes due to its anticholinergic properties. Authoritative patient tips often suggest drinking plenty of fluids, particularly water, to help manage the symptom of dry mouth.

Q: What is the purpose of the inactive ingredients in Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Inactive ingredients are components added to the liquid formulation that are not intended to treat symptoms. They are included to help with the stability, color, and taste of the liquid formulation.

Q: Is Belarmin Expectorant the same as other over-the-counter cough syrups?

A: Official product information notes this drug has a dual-action, functioning as both an antihistamine and an antitussive, which differs from single-ingredient cough syrups that contain only one of those active ingredients.

Q: Does taking more of the medicine make it work faster?

A: Regulatory guidelines warn against exceeding the recommended dosage, stating that taking more can increase the risk of serious adverse effects.

Q: Can I use Belarmin Expectorant if I am sensitive to certain dyes or preservatives?

A: Some liquid formulations of this product contain dyes. Patients with known sensitivities should review the inactive ingredient list on the label, as dye-free options may be available.

Q: What is the evidence level (e.g., Phase 3 studies) for Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Regulatory documents and clinical reviews for the active ingredient often reference data gathered from Phase 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These studies are used to support the drug's intended effects and to gather comprehensive safety data.

Q: Do I need to check for interactions if I'm only using herbal supplements?

A: Yes. Official guidance suggests reviewing any complementary or herbal remedies with a healthcare provider, as potential interactions may not be fully established.

Q: Is the effect of Belarmin Expectorant temporary or does it offer a cure?

A: The official indication for the medicine is to provide temporary relief of symptoms associated with the common cold, cough, and allergy manifestations. The medicine is not intended to cure the underlying condition causing the symptoms.

Q: Can Belarmin Expectorant cause an upset stomach?

A: Yes, regulatory-sourced materials indicate that stomach upset is a potential common side effect. Officially documented gastrointestinal effects include nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Q: Is there a risk of overdose with Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Yes. Official documents warn of the risks associated with overdosage and advise contacting emergency services in case of suspected overdose. Life-threatening events, such as convulsions and coma, are documented risks.

Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Belarmin Expectorant typically last?

A: Clinical duration data suggests that the effect of a single dose generally lasts for approximately four to six hours. This duration aligns with the recommended frequency of administration for the product.

Q: Why do official sources sometimes advise caution with Belarmin Expectorant?

A: Caution is advised because the medicine's anticholinergic properties may necessitate a review of use in patients with pre-existing conditions, such as certain types of glaucoma or prostatic hypertrophy.

Q: Does Belarmin Expectorant contain pseudoephedrine or similar stimulants?

A: The primary active ingredient is Diphenhydramine, which is a sedating antihistamine. The single-agent product does not contain pseudoephedrine or similar central nervous system stimulants.

Q: Are there different strengths of Belarmin Expectorant available?

A: Yes. The active ingredient in this medication is typically available in several different concentrations of oral liquid solutions. Strengths are often listed based on the amount of active ingredient per unit volume.

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How should Belarmin Expectorant be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Instructions

Belarmin Expectorant must be stored according to regulatory requirements to maintain its stability. The liquid should be kept at controlled room temperature, specifically between 20 C and 25 C (68 F and 77 F). Storage conditions must protect the product from light and it is explicitly required to not freeze the medicine. The syrup must remain in its original container with the cap tightly closed when not in use.

Child Safety: It is mandatory that the medicine be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal: Unused or expired Belarmin Expectorant should be disposed of using a drug take-back program. If this option is unavailable, the regulatory instruction is to mix the liquid with an undesirable substance (such as used coffee grounds) in a sealed container and discard it in the household trash. Do not pour the medicine down any drain or toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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