Dicyclomine
Key points
- DEXTROMETHORPHAN and GUAIFENESIN (Benylin, Cheracol-D, Robitussin DM, Tussi-Organidin DM and others) decrease a persistent cough caused by colds or flu.
- Generic dextromethorphan and guaifenesin products are available as prescription or non-prescription medicines, in syrups and solutions.
- What should my health care professional know before I take dextromethorphan and guaifenesin?
Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin oral solution
What is dextromethorphan; guaifenesin oral solution?
DEXTROMETHORPHAN and GUAIFENESIN (Benylin, Cheracol-D, Robitussin DM, Tussi-Organidin DM and others) decrease a persistent cough caused by colds or flu. Generic dextromethorphan and guaifenesin products are available as prescription or non-prescription medicines, in syrups and solutions.
What should my health care professional know before I take dextromethorphan and guaifenesin?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- asthma
- chronic bronchitis
- emphysema
- liver disease
- an unusual or allergic reaction to dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives (some combination products contain bromides)
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding How should I take this medicine?Take dextromethorphan and guaifenesin by mouth. Follow the directions on the container. Use a specially marked spoon or container to measure your dose. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one; household spoons are not always accurate. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. What if I miss a dose?If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. What drug(s) may interact with dextromethorphan and guaifenesin?
- alcohol
- amiodarone
- furazolidone
- linezolid
- medicines known as MAO inhibitors, such as phenelzine (Nardil), tranylcypromine (Parnate), isocarboxazid (Marplan), and selegiline (Carbex, Eldepryl)
- medicines for mental depression or other mental disturbances
- quinidine Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines. What side effects may I notice from taking dextromethorphan and guaifenesin?Severe side effects from dextromethorphan and guaifenesin are usually only seen in patients who have taken very high doses. These side effects should be reported to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:
Written and revised by
Gerald Hurowitz, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.

