Dextromethorphan

Also known as: Methorphinan

Drug #226

Dextromethorphan (HBr) is antitussive agent. Chemically Dextromethorphan (HBr) is identified as morphinan,3-methoxy-17-methyl-, (9a,13a,14a )-, hydrobrmide. Dextromethorphan (HBr) is the d isomer of the codeine analog of levophanol. In contrast to the l isomer, dextromethorphan does not possess analgesic or addictive properties, and its principal use is as a cough suppressant.

← Previous drug Next drug →

Primary Characteristics

Dextromethorphan is also known as Methorphinan, Dextromethorphan (HBr), Dextromethorphan HCl.

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Morphine.

It belongs to Anti-tussives pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action. It is also classified under Antituberculous Drugs .

Molecular Weight: 370.3 · pK_a: 8.3 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 60 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 10 · Non-proprietary name: Dextromethorphan (HBr).

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Dextromethorphan has an pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 75% (±5%).

Elimination: it is metabolised via extensive by liver, plasma half-life is 2.7-3.3 hr, renal excretion is > 50%.

Indications

Dextromethorphan is primarily indicated in conditions like Dry cough.

Contraindications

Dextromethorphan is contraindicated in conditions like Asthma, Respiratory failure, Liver diseases, Emphysema.

Dosage

Dextromethorphan's dosage details are as follows:

Dose	Single Dose	Frequency	Route	Instructions
Adult Dosage
15 mg	15 mg	Every 6h	PO
30 mg	30 mg	Every 6h	PO	(to a maximum of 120mg in 24hours)
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
5 – 10 mg	—	Every 4h		To a maximum of 60 mg in 24 hours.
7.5 mg	7.5 mg	Every 6h		3 or 4 times a day
2.5 – 5 mg	—	Every 4h	Oral	To a maximum of 30mg in 24hour (2-6 year)
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
0.312 mg/kg	0.312 mg/kg	Every 8h	Oral

Drug Interactions

Unknown11 interactions

3 interactions

Moderate1 interaction

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Dextromethorphan in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Dependency .

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Dextromethorphan are Excitation .

Dextromethorphan is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Dizziness, Drowsiness, Excitation , Mental confusion, Restlessness, Vomiting .

Warnings / Precautions

Dextromethorphan should be used with caution in patients with any pre-existing kidney disease, heart disease, lungs disease, asthma, emphysema, high blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, glaucoma, prostate trouble or if have any allergy. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or lactation.

Interference in Pathology

Dextromethorphan may interfere in the diagnosis of Intereference with diagnostic test result for skin test.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Inj

500 mg

Syrup

10 mg/5ml

Syrup

12.5 mg/5ml 13.5 mg 5 mg/5ml

Multi-Ingredient Combinations

Caps

Elixir

Eye Drops

Liquid

Syrup

10 mg/5ml 12.5 mg/5ml 15 mg/5ml 3.75 mg/5ml 5 mg/5ml 6.25 mg 6.3 mg 6.67 mg/5ml 7 mg/5ml 7.5 mg/5ml

Syrup

6.25 mg/5ml

Tabs

10 mg 15 mg 30 mg 32.5 mg

Storage Conditions

Dextromethorphan should be stored Caps, Lozenzes. Syrup, Susp.

Drug Classification

1.25.2.3 — Cough sedatives

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Dextromethorphan in Pakistan: