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.