Indications And Usage

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. It affects the signals in the brain that trigger cough reflex.

Administration

Immediate-release: 10 to 20 mg orally every 4 hours or 30 mg orally ever 6 to 8 hours

Extended-release: 60 mg orally every 12 hours

Maximum dose: 120 mg in 24 hours

Contraindications

Do not give dextromethorphan to a child younger than 4 years old.

Do not use dextromethorphan if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or methylene blue injection within the past 14 days. Serious, life-threatening side effects can occur if you take dextromethorphan before the MAO inhibitor has cleared from your body.

Precautions

Before taking dextromethorphan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: lung problems (e.g., asthma, emphysema).             This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).                                                                          

Adverse Reactions

Slight drowsiness/dizziness, nausea, or vomiting may occur.

Pregnancy and lactation

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk.

Renal and liver Impairment

Dextromethorphan in doses recommended by the manufacturer is a safe medication for patients with a single kidney.

Laboratory Tests