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.

Serious Side Effects and Overdose

Dextromethorphan is available as an over-the-counter medication. The FDA approves dextromethorphan to help relieve coughing due to a short-term cause. Dextromethorphan oral capsule is approved for use in adults and children ages 12 years and older. The recommended dosage is 30 mg every 6–8 hours as needed for cough.

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• However, individual reactions to medications can vary, and some people may experience drowsiness.
• Also tell them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use.
• These products may contain the same active ingredient(s) and taking them together could cause you to receive an overdose.
• It is also contraindicated in patients with chronic cough due to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, as well as in those with respiratory depression.
• Dextromethorphan does not specifically benefit the heart and should be used with caution in individuals with heart conditions.
• You may also report side effects or health problems to the FDA at FDA-1088.

Dextromethorphan is an over-the-counter (OTC) drug used to help relieve a dry cough. It comes as a capsule or liquid suspension (type of mixture) that you’ll swallow. It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect dextromethorphan. The risk of dizziness, drowsiness, or confusion may be increased if you drink alcohol while taking dextromethorphan. It is available over-the-counter alone and is also present in many over-the-counter and prescription combination medications.

• Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
• This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug.
• Dextromethorphan side effects can vary depending on the individual.
• It should not be given to patients on selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors because of the risk of serotonin syndrome.
• While dextromethorphan is not a controlled substance, there’s still a risk of misuse and dependence because of how the drug works in the brain.

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Generic drugs are thought to be as safe and effective as the brand-name drug on which they’re based. In general, generics usually cost less than brand-name drugs. You should not use dextromethorphan for a cough with a fever, rash, or headache that will not go away. If your cough lasts more than 7 days, stop taking dextromethorphan and call your healthcare provider.

Can Dextromethorphan Be Used for Sore Throat?

It’s not known whether dextromethorphan should be taken during pregnancy. If you’re planning a pregnancy or can become pregnant, talk with your doctor before taking this medication. The following lists contain some of the key side effects that may occur while taking dextromethorphan. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Avoid taking Dextromethorphan with other medications that may cause drowsiness during the day.

Dextromethorphan : Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, Precautions and More

It should be used with caution in elderly patients and those with certain medical conditions such as hypertension, side effects of dextromethorphan hyperthyroidism, and diabetes. As with all medications, the cost of dextromethorphan oral forms can vary. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves over-the-counter (OTC) drugs such as dextromethorphan to treat certain conditions. Misusing dextromethorphan for these effects can cause harmful side effects, such as breathing problems. To learn more about this, see “Overdose” in the “Dextromethorphan dosage” section above.

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific dextromethorphan products they stock. Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed. Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Measure the liquid form of dextromethorphan with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. It is unknown whether dextromethorphan is harmful to an unborn baby.