Dextromethorphan + Phenylephrine

Indications

Dextromethorphan + Phenylephrine is used for: Relief of Mild to Moderate Pain & Chest Congestion, Flu Symptoms & Common Cold

Adult Dose

Relief of Mild to Moderate Pain & Congestion, Flu Symptoms & Common Cold 2 strips (3.67mg/2.5mg) PO q4hr; not to exceed 12/day 15 mL [(20mg/10mg)/15mL] PO q4hr; not to exceed 90 mL/day 10 mL [(15mg/2.5mg)/5mL] PO q6hr; not to exceed 40 mL/day

Child Dose

Relief of Mild to Moderate Pain & Congestion, Flu Symptoms & Common Cold 4-6 years 1mL [(5mg/2.5mg)/1mL] PO q4hr; not to exceed 6 mL/day 1 strip (3.67mg/2.5mg) PO q4hr; not to exceed 6/day 5 mL [(5mg/2.5mg)/5mL] PO q4hr; not to exceed 30 mL/day Safetussin CD Liquid: 2.5 mL q6hr; not to exceed 10 mL/day 6-12 years 2 mL [(5mg/2.5mg)/1mL] PO q4hr; not to exceed 6 mL/day 2 strips (3.67mg/2.5mg) PO q4hr; not to exceed 12/day 10 mL [(5mg/2.5mg)/5mL] PO q4hr; not to exceed 60 mL/day 7.5 mL [(20mg/10mg)/15mL] PO q4hr; not to exceed 45 mL/day >12 years 2 strips (3.67mg/2.5mg) PO q4hr; not to exceed 12/day 15 mL [(20mg/10mg)/15mL] PO q4hr; not to exceed 90 mL/day 10 mL [(15mg/2.5mg)/5mL] PO q6hr; not to exceed 40 mL/day

Renal Dose

Administration

Contra Indications

Contraindicated in documented hypersensitivity to the drugs or within 14 days of MAO inhibitor therapy

Precautions

Not to be administered to children without the guidance of a physician if no recommendations described in the OTC product labeling Caution in elderly patients, hyperthyroidism, myocardial disease, bradycardia, partial heart block or severe arteriosclerosis when administering phenylephrine; in hypovolemia, phenylephrine use is not a substitute for replacement of blood, fluids and electrolytes, and plasma (promptly restore with loss); dilute IV and administer via large vein; extravasation precautions required Do not take dextromethorphan 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; dextromethorphan may slow the breathing

Pregnancy-Lactation

Pregnancy Category: C Lactation: Excretion in milk unknown; use with caution

Interactions

Adverse Effects

Side effects of Dextromethorphan + Phenylephrine : Frequency Not Defined Hypertension Severe peripheral and visceral vasoconstriction Reflex tachycardia Dizziness Drowsiness Excitability Headache Restlessness Tremor GI disturbances

Mechanism of Action

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that acts centrally on the cough center in the medulla. Phenylephrine is a vasoconstrictor and a decongestant that relieves symptoms resulting from irritation of upper respiratory tract tissue. It shrinks swollen mucous membranes, reduces nasal congestion and tissue hyperemia.