Indicated for: dry cough and productive cough
Route of administration: oral
Substance: dextromethorphan + guaifenesin (central antitussive and expectorant)
ATC: R05DA20 (Respiratory system | Cough suppressants, excl. combinations with expectorants | Opium alkaloids and derivatives)
This medicine may affect your ability to drive or use machines.
This medicine may cause dizziness or vertigo.
Avoid alcohol during treatment.
This medicine may have important interactions with other medicines.
This medicine may cause drowsiness or reduced alertness.
Dextromethorphan + guaifenesin is a combination used for cough associated with colds, flu or airway irritation, especially when mucus is difficult to clear and coughing fits are troublesome. Dextromethorphan reduces the cough reflex, while guaifenesin thins bronchial secretions and helps mucus be coughed up. It does not treat the underlying cause of infection.
The medicine is taken by mouth according to the leaflet, respecting age limits and the maximum daily dose. Drink enough fluids, because hydration helps loosen mucus. Do not use it for chronic cough, smoker’s cough, asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema without medical advice. In children, the correct dose must be followed strictly.
Side effects may include sleepiness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, rash, agitation or confusion. Dextromethorphan can interact with some antidepressants, including MAO inhibitors and serotonergic medicines, increasing the risk of serious reactions. Alcohol increases sedation and accident risk. Misuse or high doses can be dangerous.
Contact a doctor if cough lasts more than a few days, keeps returning, or is accompanied by high fever, chest pain, breathing difficulty, blood in sputum, weight loss or poor general condition. Stop the medicine and seek help if severe confusion, hallucinations, tremor, palpitations, widespread rash or breathing difficulty occurs.