Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Balminil DM, Benylin DM, Bronchophan, Buckleys DM, Calmylin #1, Delsym, Koffex DM, Novahistex DM, Robitussin Lingering Cold Long-Acting Cough, Robitussin Lingering Cold Long-Acting CoughGels, Children’s Robitussin Cough Long-Acting, Sucrets 8 Hour Cough Relief DM Cough Formula
- Antitussives
Description
Oral non-opioid antitussive with no expectorant activity
Used to treat cough; generally regarded as useful in suppressing cough due to chronic bronchitis and COPD; less evidence of its efficacy in treating cough due to upper respiratory illness
As an antagonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, it has been studied in the treatment of cancer, postoperative, and neuropathic pain but the high doses required often cause intolerable side effects
Indications
Indicated for temporary relief of cough; especially useful for non-productive cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with the common cold, inhaled irritants, or chronic bronchitis.
Contraindications
Concurrent nonselective MAO inhibitors: Serotonin syndrome
Adverse Effects
Nausea
Vomiting
Constipation
Drowsiness
Dizziness
Sedation
Confusion
Nervousness
Warnings
Do not take for persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if it is accompanied by excessive phlegm unless directed by a healthcare provider; may slow respiration rate
Hallucinations, confusion, agitation, hyper-reflexia, shivering, myoclonus, and tachycardia may occur
Caution in children younger than 6 years
Not for OTC use in children <4 years
Use caution in patients who are sedated, debilitated or confined to supine position
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: Not known if excreted in breast milk; use caution
Maximum Dosage
120 mg/day PO for extended- and immediate-release formulations as a cough suppressant ; off-label suggested maximum for diabetic neuropathy: 960 mg/day PO of immediate-release formulations.
120 mg/day PO for extended- and immediate-release formulations as a cough suppressant ; off-label suggested maximum for neuropathy: 960 mg/day PO of immediate-release formulations.
120 mg/day PO for extended- and immediate-release formulations.
6 to 11 years: 60 mg/day PO for extended- and immediate-release formulations.
4 to 5 years: 30 mg/day PO for extended- and immediate-release formulations.
2 to 3 years: 30 mg/day PO for immediate-release formulations ONLY.
Less than 2 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
How supplied
Cough
Liquid and syrup: 10-20 mg PO q4hr OR 30 mg q6-8hr
Gel: 30 mg PO q6-8hr; not to exceed 120 mg/24hr
Extended release: 60 mg PO q12hr; not to exceed 120 mg/24hr
Lozenges: 5-15 mg PO q1-4hr; not to exceed 120 mg/day
Strips: 30 mg PO q6-8hr; not to exceed 120 mg/day