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3.5 Minute

18-07-2024 Team Medicover general-medicine

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Raja Selvarajan, General-Medicine

Overview: Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP

One of the most widely used drugs to suppress cough is also Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP. With a prescription, you or someone else you know might be taking this syrup, and it is high time to understand what it does and how we can utilize its optimal properties as well as its risks. Everything You Need to Know About Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP Discussed The Dosage, Benefits & Precautions For Kids.

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP comes in the category of drugs called as antitussives, which act by suppressing cough centres. Dexorange syrup is a cough suppressant; it acts in the brain to help stop your urge to cough. That is why it also acts great as a cure against dry, itchy coughs that are not accompanied by phlegm.

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP Previous Uses

Cough Suppression

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP is mainly used to treat coughs. It is best suited for dry coughs with no mucus and for those with very annoying coughs that keep them up at night or influence other activities.

Additional Uses

Although primarily indicated for cough, secretions such as mucus may also dry up and can become thick and difficult to clear from the chest, so it is widespread that this medication could be used in other circumstances. Take it under the guidance of a doctor.

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How It Works: Mechanism of Action

Dextromethorphan operates centrally, acting on the cough center in the brain’s medulla. Here's how:

Suppresses neurological signaling: It mimics the neurotransmitter effects that reduce cough impulse.
Alters sensitivity: It raises the threshold required to trigger a cough reflex.
Non‑opioid effects: Unlike codeine, it lacks addictive potential at therapeutic doses, though high doses may cause mild euphoria.

This central action makes it ideal for controlling irritating, persistent dry coughs—especially at night when coughing disrupts sleep.

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP Administration to Adult Dosages

In adults, the dose of Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP is most often calculated in mL, to be taken every 4-6 hours only as required. Nonetheless, you must stick to the exact dose instructions given by your doctor or described on the medication label.

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP For Paediatric

The dose for children depends on their age and weight. Also, a pediatrician should be asked before giving this medicine to children. The paediatrician will provide the correct dose and intervals for it to work correctly.

Dosage Considerations

Do not dose higher than advised: An extreme overdose can result in adverse side effects.
Always use a measuring device: Use the dosing cup or spoon that came with your medicine to ensure an accurate dose.
Talk to your doctor: Ask for advice if symptoms continue after using the drug.

Dosage Guidelines: How Much and How Often

Adults & Adolescents (≥12 years)

Standard dose: 10–20 mg every 4–6 hours
Maximum: 120 mg per day (wide therapeutic index; abuse risk is low compared to opioids)

Children (6–11 years)

5–10 mg every 4–6 hours as needed
Daily total: no more than 60 mg

Children (2–5 years)

Use only pediatric formulations with adjusted concentrations
2.5–5 mg every 4–6 hours
Maximum: 30 mg per day

Important cautions:

Always use calibrated measuring spoons—not kitchen teaspoons
Avoid combining with other drugs containing dextromethorphan
Use intermittently—stop if symptoms persist beyond 7 days or worsen

Common Side Effects

Driving and hazardous work: This medicine may cause drowsiness; if affected, do not drive or operate heavy machinery.
Many people feel like they might pass out because of the feeling of being lightheaded.
Nausea: Some people may feel mild nausea, especially when taken on an empty stomach.

Severe Side Effects

However, these can take a few weeks to develop and are very rare. Call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms:

Allergic reactions include rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue and throat, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing.
Hallucinations: Whimsical thoughts or conduct may happen to a person grieve.
Signs of serotonin syndrome: agitation, hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that are not real), fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness or twitching

If you experience persistent side effects or need personalised medical advice, you can easily book an appointment at Medicover Hospital for timely evaluation.

Specific Conditions

Adverse Reactions: Various disease conditions can contraindicate the use of Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP. If you suffer from any of the following types (these make it even more critical), consult your healthcare provider immediately:
If you have a chronic cough e,g, due to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
MAO inhibitors: You should not take this drug if you are currently on MAOI drugs or have used them for the past 14 days.

For concerns related to chronic cough, asthma, or allergy-related symptoms, visit our Pulmonologists & General Physicians for expert treatment options.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Check with the doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding to be clear it is not harmful to your baby.

Instructions for Use

What the label says: Always read the medication label and follow instructions exactly as directed.
Use an accurate dose measure: The dosette provided with the product is used to measure doses precisely.
Proper storage: To avoid accidents, store the syrup in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep it out of an area where children can reach it.

Missed Dose

If you missed the dose, Consume it as quickly as you can. If your next dose is almost here, skip the missed one and resume your usual dosing regimen. Please remember the doses to make up for any missed ones.

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Conclusion

Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide Syrup IP is a common medication used to suppress dry coughs. Knowing the possible uses, correct dosage, potential side effects, and precautions can help you get this medication safely. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of the content found on this site. Always consult an adult or your best adviser if you need clarification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may reduce the chances of stomach discomfort in sensitive individuals.

It can be used in elderly individuals, but caution is advised due to increased sensitivity to medications and potential drug interactions. Always consult a doctor before use.

It typically does not affect blood pressure significantly. However, individuals with hypertension should still consult their physician before use, especially if combining with other medications.

Combining with herbal remedies is generally safe but may increase the risk of unexpected interactions. Inform your doctor of any supplements or herbal products you are using.

It may suppress the cough temporarily, but allergic cough is better treated by addressing the allergy with antihistamines or doctor-approved allergy medications.

You should not use it for more than 7 consecutive days unless prescribed by a healthcare professional. Persistent cough should be investigated further.

No, it is intended for dry, non-productive coughs. Suppressing a productive cough may lead to mucus retention and complications.

At therapeutic doses, it is not habit-forming. However, misuse in high doses among teens can lead to psychological dependence or recreational abuse. Supervision is advised.