Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is a widely used over-the-counter non-opioid cough suppressant. It works by elevating the cough threshold centrally in the medulla oblongata. It does not possess significant analgesic, sedative, or addictive properties at therapeutic doses, although misuse and abuse potential exist at high recreational doses.
Dosage by Body Weight
Dosage varies significantly based on age and weight. Use a precise dosing syringe or cup. Avoid using OTC cough suppressants in children under 4 years of age unless specifically directed by a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Contraindicated
- Frequency
- Do not administer
- Tracking Notes
- Do not give to infants. High risk of severe respiratory depression and adverse effects.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not administer
- Tracking Notes
- Safety and efficacy have not been established in children of this weight/age range. Consult a pediatrician.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- Do not administer
- Tracking Notes
- Generally corresponds to children under 2-4 years of age. Cough medicines are not recommended for this age group.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 2.5 mg to 3.75 mg
- Frequency
- Every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Only for children aged 4 years and older. Do not exceed 15 mg in 24 hours. Always consult a pediatrician before administering.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 3.75 mg to 5 mg
- Frequency
- Every 4 to 6 hours as needed
- Tracking Notes
- Only for children aged 4 years and older. Do not exceed 20 mg in 24 hours. Ensure accurate measuring device is used.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Contraindicated | Do not administer | Do not give to infants. High risk of severe respiratory depression and adverse effects. |
| 5-7 kg | Not recommended | Do not administer | Safety and efficacy have not been established in children of this weight/age range. Consult a pediatrician. |
| 8-10 kg | Not recommended | Do not administer | Generally corresponds to children under 2-4 years of age. Cough medicines are not recommended for this age group. |
| 11-15 kg | 2.5 mg to 3.75 mg | Every 4 to 6 hours as needed | Only for children aged 4 years and older. Do not exceed 15 mg in 24 hours. Always consult a pediatrician before administering. |
| 16-20 kg | 3.75 mg to 5 mg | Every 4 to 6 hours as needed | Only for children aged 4 years and older. Do not exceed 20 mg in 24 hours. Ensure accurate measuring device is used. |
Formulation
Purpose
Temporarily relieves cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation associated with a common cold, flu, or inhaled irritants. It is a cough suppressant (antitussive) that acts on the cough reflex center in the brain.
Generic Name
Dextromethorphan HydrobromideBranded Drug Names
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.