Dextromethorphan: Side Effects, Uses, Dosage, Interactions, Warnings

Dextromethorphan side effects can vary depending on the individual. It’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, even if it’s generally considered safe. It’s important to follow the specific instructions on the medication label or as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Dextromethorphan acts on the cough center in the brain to reduce the urge to cough. Unlike some other cough suppressants, it does not have significant pain-relieving effects, nor does it treat the underlying cause of the cough.

Dextromethorphan for cough

For mild allergic reaction symptoms, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may recommend treatments to help manage your symptoms. They’ll also let you know whether you should keep taking the medication. If you have mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may suggest a treatment to manage your symptoms and can determine whether you should keep taking dextromethorphan. Like most drugs, dextromethorphan may cause mild to serious side effects.

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As with other drugs, dextromethorphan can cause side effects, such as drowsiness or dizziness. A household spoon is not an accurate measuring device and may cause you to take the wrong dose. Use the dosing cup provided with the product or ask your pharmacist to recommend an appropriate measuring device.

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While less common, the most serious side effects of dextromethorphan are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Dextromethorphan may also be used for other conditions as determined by your healthcare provider. Along with its needed effects, dextromethorphan may cause some unwanted effects. Dextromethorphan suppresses cough by reducing the sensitivity of cough receptors in the brain region that stimulate the cough reflex and preventing the transmission of cough impulses. Dextromethorphan is a non-opioid drug derived from levorphanol, an opioid analgesic, and is structurally similar to opioid drugs such as codeine. It can be rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and exerts its antitussive effect in about minutes after oral administration.

For healthcare professionals

• Dextromethorphan is approved to help relieve cough caused by minor throat or airway irritation (see just above for more information).
• With dependence, your body becomes used to a drug and needs it to function as usual.
• Dextromethorphan is commonly used to reduce cough caused by common cold or inhaled allergens or that makes it hard for you to fall asleep.
• These symptoms could be life threatening and require immediate medical care.
• Drowsiness is not a common side effect of dextromethorphan.
• Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

For chronic respiratory conditions, alternative treatments are advised. side effects of dextromethorphan Consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended, especially when considering its inclusion in combination medications, to ensure safe and appropriate use. Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter (OTC) cough suppressant used to relieve coughing caused by the common cold, flu, or other illnesses. Common side effects of dextromethorphan include dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, sedation, nervousness, restlessness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and constipation.

Dextromethorphan and pregnancy

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following. Dextromethorphan is commonly used to reduce cough caused by common cold or inhaled allergens or that makes it hard for you to fall asleep. Dextromethorphan is available over the counter under many different brand and generic names. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you. Enter medications to view a detailed interaction report using our Drug Interaction Checker.

• If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them.
• If you have ingested more than the recommended dosage, avail emergency medical attention.
• Some people misuse dextromethorphan by taking it in amounts higher than the recommended dosage to try to get high or hallucinate.
• If you experience nausea throughout the day, taking your dose of dextromethorphan with food or milk may help ease that side effect.
• It is not known if dextromethorphan passes into breast milk.
• Dextromethorphan is available in syrup, tablets, spray, and lozenge forms.

It works by decreasing activity in the part of the brain that causes coughing. For severe allergic reaction symptoms, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms require immediate medical care because they can become life threatening.