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Dextromethorphan (cough): uses, side effects & brands
Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant for a dry, tickly cough. It belongs to the Respiratory / cough & cold medicine group. These ease breathing, loosen mucus or calm a cough in chest and airway conditions.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Respiratory / cough & cold medicine |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Dry, tickly cough
- Cough from throat irritation in colds
- Part of many cough and cold combination medicines
Common brand names
- India: Corex DX, Benadryl DR
- Worldwide: Robitussin DM, Delsym
Common side effects
- Drowsiness or dizziness
- Nausea
- Constipation
Before taking it — precautions
- Do not take with MAOI antidepressants; caution with SSRIs
- Avoid alcohol
- Not for wet cough or young children without advice
When to see a doctor urgently
- Confusion, agitation, fever or shaking (urgent)
- Breathing difficulty (urgent)
- Cough lasting more than three weeks
Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of dextromethorphan depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.
Frequently asked questions
Is it for wet cough?
No — it suppresses dry cough; wet cough needs clearing, not suppressing.
Can it be abused?
Yes, in large amounts it can cause dangerous effects.
Can children take it?
Not young children unless a doctor advises.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.