Antitussives (Oral)

Antitussives (By Mouth)

Treats dry coughs caused by colds, flu, and lung infections.

Brand Name(s):

Delsym, Benylin Pediatric Formula, Miltuss, Robitussin Maximum Strength, Babee Cof Syrup, Robitussin Pediatric Cough, St. Joseph, ElixSure Cough Children’s, Creomulsion Cough, Father John’s Medicine, Silphen DM, Creomulsion For Children, Tessalon Perles, Dexalone, Nycoff
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to an antitussive (cough suppressants), or if you are also using an MAO inhibitor such as Nardilreg;, Parnatereg;, Eldeprylreg;, or Marplanreg; or you have used one within the past 2 weeks.

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Lozenge, Liquid Filled Capsule, Capsule, Tablet

     
  • Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.  
  • If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label.  
  • Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. You might need to shake the liquid before using it.  
  • Swallow the liquid-filled capsule whole, such as Tessalon Perlesreg; or Tessalon Capsulesreg;. Do not chew, break, or suck on the liquid-filled capsule.

If a dose is missed::

     
  • If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

     
  • Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container away from direct light, heat, and moisture. Do not freeze.  
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

     
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are taking this medicine.  
  • Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking sleeping pills, sedatives, cold and allergy medicines, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers, or pain pills before you take this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

     
  • If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.  
  • Talk to your doctor if you have ever had asthma, emphysema, diabetes, heart disease, seizure disorders, an overactive thyroid, chronic bronchitis, or a liver disease before you take this medicine.  
  • Call your doctor if your cough does not improve or last longer than 7 days.  
  • Call your doctor if your cough gets worse, if you cough up yellow mucus, or if you have a fever, rash, sore throat, vomiting, or continuing headache with the cough.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

     
  • Slowed or difficulty breathing  
  • Severe drowsiness  
  • Rash or itching

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

     
  • Drowsiness, dizziness  
  • Constipation  
  • Upset stomach  
  • Nervousness or restlessness

Johns Hopkins patient information

Copyright 1996-2014 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 16.02.
Revision date: June 14, 2011
Last revised: by Janet A. Staessen, MD, PhD

Drugs & Medications

  A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

The drug reference included in this section is provided by Cerner Multum, Inc., of Denver, Colorado. Armenian Medical Network receives monthly updates from Multum.