Generic name: dextromethorphan [ dex-troe-me-thor-fan ]
Drug class: Antitussives
Availability: Rx and/or otc
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Dextromethorphan, Babee cof, Buckleys mixture, Creomulsion, Dayquil cough
What is Cough dm?
Cough DM is a cough suppressant that is used to treat cough caused by the common cold or flu.
Cough DM will not treat a cough caused by smoking, asthma, or emphysema.
There are many brands and forms of dextromethorphan available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet.
Cough DM may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not use Cough DM if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.
How should I use Cough dm
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Cold or cough medicine is only for short-term use until your symptoms clear up.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, or if you have a fever, rash, or headaches.
If you need surgery or medical tests, tell your surgeon or doctor ahead of time that you have taken Cough DM in the past few days.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze.
Before Taking
Do not use Cough DM if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur. MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and others.
You should not use Cough DM if you are allergic to it.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have any medical conditions.
Cough DM should not be given to a child younger than 12 years old.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
This medicine may contain phenylalanine. Check the medication label if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since cough or cold medicine is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Cough dm?
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how Cough DM will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of this medicine.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using over-the-counter medicines that may contain ingredients similar to Cough DM.
Cough dm side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Cough DM may cause serious side effects. Stop using Cough DM and call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe nervousness, confusion;
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severe dizziness or drowsiness;
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blurred vision; or
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painful or difficult urination.
Common side effects of Cough DM may include:
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nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite;
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dizziness;
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tingling; or
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feeling restless.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Cough dm Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Cough dm?
Avoid using this medicine with other drugs that cause drowsiness or slow your breathing (such as opioid medicine, a muscle relaxer, or medicine for anxiety or seizures). Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other medication, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed in this medication guide.