Dextromethorphan hbr 13.5mg/5ml

Category- Allopathy

Medicine Highlights

Dextromethorphan Uses  

Dextromethorphan is useful in treating dry cough.          

Directions for use

1. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, at the same time each day. 
2. Do not stop taking this medicine without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better. 
3. If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose.  

Dextromethorphan side effects 

More Common  

1. Drowsiness 
2. Dizziness 
3. Nausea 
4. Vomiting 
5. Stomach discomfort 
6. Mild headache      

Less Common

1. Restlessness or confusion 
2. Allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling) 
3. Difficulty breathing 
4. Hallucinations          

How Dextromethorphan works 

Dextromethorphan works by acting on the cough center in the brain. It reduces the brain’s urge to cough, so the cough reflex becomes less active. This helps control dry, irritating, non-productive cough. It does not treat mucus or infections only decreases the cough signal. 

Safety Measures and Warning 

Allergy/Hypersensitivity

 If you are allergic to Dextromethorphan, you should not take it because it can cause rashes, swelling, or breathing trouble. Always communicate with your doctor in case of any allergic reactions. 

Antidepressants

 If you’re taking certain antidepressants, you must communicate with your doctor as taking this medicine with antidepressants can cause dangerous reactions.

Severe Breathing Problems

If you’re suffering with uncontrolled asthma, severe COPD, or breathing difficulty, you should avoid it because it may worsen your condition.  

Children

Children below 12 years should not take it as the dose may be unsafe for them. Always ask your doctor before giving it to your child. 

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should use it only if your doctor approves, as this medicine can cause unnecessary complications to the developing fetes  

Dextromethorphan Interaction with Food Product

Avoid consuming Grapefruit or grapefruit juice, alcohol and caffeine as they may reduce the effectiveness of the medicine and can cause side effects like increased heart rate and nervousness.  

Dextromethorphan Interaction with Other Medicines

Avoid taking Dextromethorphan with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal: 

Dextromethorphan Chemical Structure

IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name

Dextromethorphan: (1S,9S,10S)-4-methoxy-17-methyl-17-azatetracyclo[7.5.3.0^1,10.0^2,7]heptadeca-2(7),3,5-triene 

Intake routine/cycle

Daily dose

Take Dextromethorphan exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor. 

Missed Dose

If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage. 

Overdose

Do not take Dextromethorphan more than 120 ml per day. Overdosing may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, dizziness, headache, low blood pressure, drowsiness, restlessness, or in rare cases, seizures and breathing difficulty. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these occur.  

Storage

1. Store the medicine at room temperature 
2. Keep away from sunlight and moisture 
3. Keep out of reach of children 

Dextromethorphan Summary

Dextromethorphan HBr is an antitussive (cough suppressant) used to relieve dry, irritating, non-productive cough by calming the cough center in the brain. The usual dose depends on age and product strength, and it can be taken before and after having food. Its common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and headache, while rare effects include allergic reactions, breathing difficulty, and hallucinations (usually with overdose).  

People who are allergic to it, taking to this medicine, children below 12 years, individuals with severe breathing problems, alcohol dependency, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it unless advised by a doctor. Food generally does not interfere with its action, Overall, it helps control dry cough but should be taken exactly as advised by a doctor.    

FAQ’s

What are the uses of dextromethorphan syrup? 

It is used to treat dry, irritating cough, reduce the urge to cough, and provide relief from throat irritation caused by colds or respiratory infections. 

How does Dextromethorphan work? 

Dextromethorphan works by acting on the brain’s cough center to reduce the urge to cough. It helps control dry, irritating coughs and makes breathing more comfortable by preventing frequent coughing.

What class does Dextromethorphan belong to? 

Dextromethorphan belongs to the Antitussive (cough suppressant) class of medicines. 

What are the side effects of Dextromethorphan? 

Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and headache. Rare side effects include restlessness, confusion, allergic reactions, breathing difficulty, and hallucinations (usually with overdose). 

Reference 

1. PubChem. Dextromethorphan [Internet]. pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available from 
2. Dextromethorphan Dosage Guide with Precautions [Internet]. Drugs.com. Available from 
3. Oh S, Agrawal S, Taylor A. Dextromethorphan [Internet]. Nih.gov. StatPearls Publishing; 2019. Available from  

Pranathi Chintaluri

Pranathi is a final year Pharm D student at Chalapathi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. She loves learning and applying her knowledge in pharmacy and has a passion for writing, which allows her to express ideas clearly and creatively. She enjoys combining her technical skills with her love for writing and communication to make a meaningful impact. Currently she is working on a research paper about “Consanguineous marriages and its impact on children’s health” which will be published by the end of 2025.