Dextromethorphan
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DRUG STATUS
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
Sigma-1 Agonist and Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Dextromethorphan
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Click HereSummary
Dextromethorphan is used for temporary relief of coughs due to minor throat and bronchial irritation. This can be caused by conditions like the common cold or inhaled irritants. It's not intended for chronic coughs or those with excessive mucus.
Dextromethorphan acts on the brain's cough center to suppress the cough reflex. This reduces the urge to cough, providing relief from persistent coughing due to throat and bronchial irritation.
For adults and children 12 years and older, the usual dose is 20-30 mg every 4-6 hours, not exceeding 120 mg in 24 hours. For children 6 to under 12 years, the dose is typically 10 mg every 4 hours, not exceeding 60 mg in 24 hours. Children under 6 years should not use Dextromethorphan without medical advice.
Common side effects of Dextromethorphan include dizziness, drowsiness, and nausea. Serious adverse effects are rare but can include allergic reactions or serotonin syndrome when combined with certain medications.
Dextromethorphan should not be used with MAOIs, a type of antidepressant, as this can cause serious interactions. It should not be used in children under 6 without medical advice. Caution is advised for those with chronic coughs or excessive mucus.
Indications and Purpose
What is Dextromethorphan used for?
Dextromethorphan is indicated for the temporary relief of coughs due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, such as those that may occur with a cold. It is not intended for chronic coughs associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema.
How does Dextromethorphan work?
Dextromethorphan works by affecting the signals in the brain that trigger the cough reflex. It suppresses the urge to cough, providing relief from coughs due to minor throat and bronchial irritation.
Is Dextromethorphan effective?
Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that temporarily relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, such as that which may occur with a cold. It is widely used and available over-the-counter, indicating its effectiveness in managing cough symptoms.
How does one know if Dextromethorphan is working?
The benefit of Dextromethorphan is evaluated by its ability to temporarily relieve cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advised to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Dextromethorphan?
For adults and children 12 years and older, the usual dose is 2 chewable tablets every 4 hours, not exceeding 12 tablets in 24 hours. For children 6 to under 12 years, the dose is 1 chewable tablet every 4 hours, not exceeding 6 tablets in 24 hours. Children under 6 years should not use this medication.
How do I take Dextromethorphan?
Dextromethorphan can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions mentioned, but it is important to follow the recommended dosage and consult a doctor if you have any dietary concerns.
For how long do I take Dextromethorphan?
Dextromethorphan is typically used for short-term relief of coughs due to minor throat and bronchial irritation. If the cough lasts more than 7 days, comes back, or occurs with fever, rash, or headache, it is advised to stop use and consult a doctor.
How long does it take for Dextromethorphan to start working?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
How should I store Dextromethorphan?
Store Dextromethorphan in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep it out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Dextromethorphan?
Do not use Dextromethorphan if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping the MAOI drug. Consult a doctor if you have a persistent or chronic cough, or if the cough occurs with too much phlegm. Stop use and consult a doctor if the cough lasts more than 7 days or is accompanied by fever, rash, or headache.
Can I take Dextromethorphan with other prescription drugs?
Dextromethorphan should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are certain drugs for depression, psychiatric, or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. This interaction can lead to serious side effects.
Can I take Dextromethorphan with vitamins or supplements?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Dextromethorphan be taken safely while pregnant?
If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional before using Dextromethorphan. There is no strong evidence from human studies on fetal harm, but caution is recommended.
Can Dextromethorphan be taken safely while breastfeeding?
If breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional before using Dextromethorphan to ensure safety for both mother and child.
Is Dextromethorphan safe for the elderly?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Dextromethorphan?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Dextromethorphan?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
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