Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
DEXTROMETHORPHAN HYDROBROMIDE
Overview
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is commonly used to alleviate dry, non-productive coughs associated with conditions like the common cold or flu. It works by acting on the brain’s cough center to suppress the urge to cough, providing temporary relief from persistent coughing episodes
Classification
Antitussive
Uses
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is a medication commonly used to alleviate dry, non-productive coughs associated with conditions like the common cold or flu. It is available over-the-counter in various forms, including syrups, lozenges, and tablets.
How it works
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is an antitussive (cough suppressants). It suppresses cough by reducing the activity of the cough centre in the brain.
Dosage
As directed by the physician
Precautions
Inform your doctor if you’re allergic to dextromethorphan, any other medications, or any ingredients in the product you plan to take. Look at labels to identify ingredients.
If you’ve taken any monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) like isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days, get advice from your physician or pharmacist before taking dextromethorphan. Dextromethorphan combined with an MAOI can cause dangerous and sometimes fatal side effects.
Help your doctor take the best possible care of you by sharing all the prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you’re taking or plan to take. This is an important measure to promote safe use that may involve dose titration or monitoring for adverse effects.
Tell your health care provider if you are a current smoker, if you have a cough with lots of phlegm, or any other history of lung disease such as asthma, emphysema, or chronic bronchitis. Here’s why dextromethorphan isn’t appropriate for these conditions.
Unless you’re ready to use dextromethorphan, it’s best to talk to your doctor if you’re pregnant, becoming pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of dextromethorphan in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been adequately researched.
If you have PKU, know that some chewable dextromethorphan tablets may be sweetened with aspartame, which has phenylalanine.
Side effects
Dextromethorphan may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Drowsiness
Nervousness
Restlessness
Nausea
Vomiting
Stomach pain
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
Rash
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage.
Diphenhydramine Hydrochloride
DIPHENHYDRAMINE
Overview
Diphenhydramine is a commonly used medicine to treat allergic reactions, cold symptoms, and itching. It also acts as a sleep aid and helps relieve motion sickness or nausea. It’s available in various forms, including tablets, syrups, creams, and injections.
Classification
Antihistamine
Uses
Eases allergy symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, and hives
Soothes skin irritation and itching due to insect bites, rashes, or eczema
Helps with insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
Used to prevent and manage motion sickness
Relieves cough and cold symptoms when combined with other ingredients
Sometimes used for mild anxiety or restlessness
How It Works
Diphenhydramine works by blocking histamine, a natural substance your body releases during allergic reactions. It also affects certain brain chemicals to cause drowsiness, which helps with sleep and reduces motion-related nausea or dizziness.
Dosage
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects
Common effects may include:
Drowsiness or sleepiness
Dry mouth, nose, or throat
Dizziness or blurred vision
Upset stomach or constipation
Feeling groggy or uncoordinated, especially in older adults
Precautions
Can cause drowsiness—avoid driving or operating heavy machinery after taking
Should be used cautiously in older adults, as it may cause confusion or falls
Let your doctor know if you have asthma, glaucoma, high blood pressure, or an enlarged prostate
Avoid alcohol and other sedatives while using this medicine
Not usually recommended for children under 6 without medical advice
If pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
