So, a cough is a common ailment that we suffer from. Sometimes it can last for days. So, at such times, many of us go to the pharmacy and ask for a cough syrup, right? Dextromethorphan is one of the main drugs contained in many cough syrups that we buy. So today, let's talk about this medicine, what to be careful about when using it, and whether it is really safe.
What is Dextromethorphan?
Simply put, dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant. In medical terms, these are called cough suppressants. What this medicine does is to temporarily stop the cough reflex by affecting the cough center in our brain. That is, it does not eliminate the cause of the cough, but rather controls the symptom of the cough.
This medicine comes under different brand names. Sometimes it comes in syrups that contain just dextromethorphan, or in combination with other medicines for other conditions, such as fever, colds, and coughs. Therefore, it is very important to read the contents of the medicine package that you are using.
What should I tell the doctor before taking this medicine?
Before you use a medicine containing dextromethorphan, you should definitely tell your doctor if you have any of the following health conditions:
| Health condition/opportunity | Why should you inform? |
|---|---|
| Respiratory diseases such as asthma or emphysema | In such conditions, stopping the cough can cause mucus to become trapped in the lungs. |
| If you cough and produce a lot of mucus | It is not advisable to stop coughing when you have a cough with mucus. The body needs to cough up mucus. |
| Liver disease | This medicine is removed from the body by the liver. So if there is a problem with the liver, the medicine can accumulate in the body. |
| If you are a smoker | This medicine may not be suitable for coughs caused by smoking. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant | It is essential to seek medical advice before taking any medication during pregnancy. |
| If a mother is breastfeeding her child | Talk to your doctor about whether the medication can pass to your baby through breast milk. |
| If you have allergies to other medications, foods, or substances | You may be allergic to dextromethorphan or any of its ingredients. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
This is very important. You need to use medicine exactly as prescribed.
- Take the correct dose: Follow the instructions on the medicine bottle or package exactly. Never take more than the amount prescribed by your doctor.
- Use an accurate measure: Use the measuring cup that comes with the medicine or a special spoon to measure it. Do not use teaspoons or tablespoons that you have at home. They are not accurate. If you do not have a measuring cup, you can ask for one at a pharmacy.
- When giving to children: You need to be very careful when giving this medicine to children. Sometimes, the doctor may prescribe it for children over 2 years of age. However, do not give this medicine to young children without the doctor's advice.
What happens if you take too much medicine? (Overdose)
If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Overdose can be dangerous.
This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Do not share your medicine with others. This medicine may not be suitable for someone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
Are there any other medications that should not be taken with this medicine?
Yes. Some medications can react with dextromethorphan and cause dangerous conditions.
- MAOIs (Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors): These are a type of medication used to treat conditions such as depression. If you are taking a medication in this class, it is not a good idea to take dextromethorphan.
- Medications for mental illnesses: Other medications for conditions such as depression and anxiety can also interact with this.
- Other cold or allergy medications: Sometimes other cough and cold medications you take may also contain dextromethorphan or similar ingredients. You could be taking an overdose without even realizing it.
Therefore, it is very important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking (including vitamins and traditional medicines).
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
- Do not use for more than a week: Do not take this cough medicine for more than a week without medical advice. If the cough does not subside, there may be another cause.
- Watch for other symptoms: If you have symptoms like high fever, skin rash, persistent headache, or sore throat, see a doctor.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: Some people may feel drowsy or dizzy after taking this medicine. Therefore, do not drive or operate machinery while taking this medicine. Be careful when getting up suddenly, especially if you are elderly.
- Avoid alcohol: Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. It can increase drowsiness and side effects.
What side effects are possible?
Most people don't experience serious side effects, but it's good to be aware of some things.
| Classification of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. These can be dangerous. | |
| Usually not serious (but tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome) | |
| Dizziness | Drowsiness |
| Fatigue | Some people may experience mild stomach discomfort. |
Danger of misuse
This is very important. Some young people, especially teenagers, are tempted to take high doses of this drug for recreational use. This is known as "robo-tripping" or "dexing." This is very dangerous and can even be life-threatening. When taken in high doses, it can affect the brain and cause serious conditions such as hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, and serotonin syndrome.
If you suspect your child is engaging in this type of behavior, talk to a doctor or mental health counselor immediately. They can provide the necessary help.
Take-Home Message
- Read the label: Before taking any medicine, read the ingredients and instructions carefully. The ingredients may vary between different products of the same type of medicine.
- Seek medical advice: Always talk to your doctor before taking dextromethorphan, especially if you have other medical conditions, are taking other medications, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
- Take only the prescribed dose: Do not take more than the prescribed dose for any reason. It will not provide any additional benefit, and instead will cause dangerous side effects.
- Keep away from children: Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
- If the cough persists: If the cough persists for more than a week or if other symptoms develop, see a doctor. There may be another cause.
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