Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
Generic Details
Generic Name
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
Other Names
- DXM
- Dextromethorphan HBr
Drug Class
- Antitussive
Chemical Formula
C18H25NO·HBr
Molecular Weight
352.31 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Acts on the cough center in the medulla oblongata to suppress cough reflex
Indications
- Cough suppression
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral liquid
- Capsules
- Lozenges
Typical Dosage
- 10-20 mg every 4-6 hours
Pediatric Dosage
- 2-6 years: 7.5 mg every 4-6 hours
- 6-12 years: 15 mg every 4-6 hours
Geriatric Dosage
- Use with caution due to potential for decreased metabolism and clearance
Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to dextromethorphan
- MAOI therapy
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Probably safe in breastfeeding in approved doses
Drug Interactions
- MAOIs
- SSRIs
- Quinidine
Overdose Symptoms
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
- Sweating
- Heart palpitations
Antidote for Overdose
- None, supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, enters breast milk
- Metabolism: Mainly metabolized in the liver by CYP2D6 enzyme
- Excretion: Excreted in urine as metabolites
Precautions
- Caution in patients with liver impairment
- Avoid use in chronic cough or underlying respiratory conditions without medical advice
Warnings
- Avoid use with alcohol
- May cause CNS depression
Others
- Avoid using with other cough medications to prevent accidental overdose