DextromethorphanOver the counter
Pronounced dex-tro-meth-OR-fan
Brand names: Robitussin DM, Delsym
Type: Cough suppressant · All Lung & Breathing Medicines
What Dextromethorphan is used for
- Temporary cough relief from colds
- Pseudobulbar affect (in a combination product with quinidine)
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Nervousness
Important cautions
- Taking large amounts to get high is dangerous and can be fatal, especially in teenagers
- Combined with MAOI antidepressants and many serotonergic medicines it can cause serotonin syndrome
How it comes
Liquid, capsules, lozenges, extended-release liquid. This guide lists forms only — it never lists strengths or doses.
Related medicines — Lung & Breathing Medicines
Please note: This page is a patient-education summary, not medical advice, and it deliberately contains no doses. Medicines affect everyone differently — always follow your own prescription and talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping or changing any medicine.