There are times when you can't even do your daily tasks properly because of the constant cough and stuffy chest. Because of this annoying cough and phlegm that don't let you sleep well at night, we often go to the pharmacy and ask for a cough syrup. But do we really know exactly what these medicines are? Today, let's talk about two main ingredients found in many of the syrups that are used to treat coughs and phlegm.
What are Dextromethorphan and Guaifenesin?
When you buy a bottle of cough medicine, these are the two names that are written on the bottle. These are a combination of the two. Simply put, this does two things.
- Dextromethorphan: This is a cough suppressant . It works by affecting the cough center in our brain, controlling frequent coughing. This is especially helpful for dry coughs.
- Guaifenesin: This is an expectorant . It works by thinning and loosening the thick, sticky mucus in our chest and airways. This makes it easier for us to cough it up. When the mucus is cleared, it also reduces chest tightness.
Imagine, while controlling your annoying cough with one medicine, it also helps to loosen the mucus stuck in your chest and help it to be easily expelled from your body. This is what this combination of medicines does.
Important things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although you can buy this medicine at a pharmacy, it is safest to consult your doctor before taking it. You should definitely inform your doctor before taking this medicine, especially if you have any of the following conditions:
| Health status | Description |
|---|---|
| Respiratory diseases | If you have lung diseases such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. |
| Kidney or liver disease | If you have any medical condition related to kidney or liver function. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to Dextromethorphan, Guaifenesin, or any other medicine, food, or coloring. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
| Other conditions | If you have a condition where you have difficulty getting out of bed and sitting up. |
The correct way to use the medicine
- Drink with a glass of water: Drink a large glass of water while taking this medicine. Also, drinking plenty of water throughout the day (about 6-8 glasses) will help thin out the mucus.
- Correct measurement: This is very important. Do not use household teaspoons to measure medicine. They are not accurate. Only use the measuring cup or special spoon that comes with the medicine.
- If giving to children: If giving this medicine to children, talk to your pediatrician about it. Special care may be needed.
- Overdose: If you think you have taken more than the prescribed dose of medication, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital, or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
- Do not share: This medicine is prescribed for you only. Even if your friend has the same symptoms as you, do not give them your medicine without first asking a doctor.
Can there be problems with other medications?
Yes, some medications can interact with this cough syrup and cause problems. So tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, traditional medicines (like decoctions, arishta), and even supplements.
| Type of medicine | Level of concern |
|---|---|
| Do not take these with anything. | |
| MAOIs (a type of medication used to treat depression) | For example: Medicines like Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate. |
| Procarbazine | A medicine for cancer. |
| These may cause problems (seek medical advice) | |
| Other cold or allergy medications | Many medications may contain this ingredient, which can increase the dosage . |
| Medications for mental illness | Medications for depression or other mental health problems. |
What are the possible side effects of taking the medicine?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people, but most people don't.
Important: This medicine may make you feel drowsy or dizzy . So avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Also, avoid getting up from a sitting position or sitting down suddenly. This is especially true if you are an elderly person.
| Side effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Things to report to your doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergies | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Difficulty breathing | Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, etc. |
| Mental changes | Confusion, excessive agitation, restlessness. |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Headache | A common headache. |
| Stomach discomfort | Stomach ache, nausea, etc. |
Take-Home Message
- This medicine is a combination of two ingredients that control cough and thin mucus.
- Tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have and all other medications you are taking.
- Use the measuring cup that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use household teaspoons.
- Avoid driving as this medicine may cause drowsiness.
- If your cough doesn't go away after a week of taking medication, or if you develop other symptoms such as fever or skin rashes, be sure to see a doctor.
- If you suspect an overdose, immediately go to the National Poisons Information Center or a hospital Emergency Department (ETU).
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