by Dr Pandula Siribaddana

Created on: June 26, 2010

What is Dextromethorphan?

Dextromethorphan is a widely used anti-tussive or cough suppressant agent that is used for short term relief of nagging coughs that are due to airway irritations through common cold, flu or else through inhaled irritants. Although the drug is intended to be used in cough suppression, it can also be used for other conditions and it is considered a emerging recreational drug that is being used for its hallucinogen effect.

What to consider before taking?

In some of the over the counter cough suppressant agents, the ones which contain Dextromethorphan would be indicated through DXM or DM. But, its availability as an over-the-counter drug should not give a false sense of assurance that it is a safe drug in every instance and therefore, obtaining medical advice in instances such as liver disease, using MAO inhibitors and other drugs, in small children, in pregnant mothers, in atopic individuals…etc would be a wise decision than facing the side effects it exert.

What are the side effects of DXM?

Among the side effects that it exerts, some are common effects whereas the others would be rather rare. But, all in all, the drug would be well tolerated in recommended doses most of the time. Let us now see some of the side effects that can take place following taking DXM including some of the more serious effects.

Common side effects:

The DXM would be absorbed through the intestine and will traverse the blood brain barrier to exert its effect over the brain centers. Thus, the effect of this drug is said to be a central action rather than an action that take place locally. Therefore, the side effects which take place would also have a central origin as against local reactions.

Among the common side effects, gastro intestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are seen frequently. At the same time, drowsiness, excitability, dizziness, headache and stomach upset would also be common complaints among those who are susceptible for side effects.

Rare side effects:

Among these, allergic reactions can be considered the most serious of all and would vary from mild itching to a more serious anaphylactic reaction. But, it should be remembered that, such occurrences are extremely rare.

In case you develop an allergic reaction to Dextromethrophan, you have to look out for the appearance of hives, extensive itching, lip swelling or any other face swelling, breathing difficulties and chest pain. If so, urgent medical attention should be sorted in order to prevent progression in to life threatening instances.

Apart from this, confusion, hallucinations and shallow breathing would also occur with DXM which are most likely to be due to overdosing or prolonged use than when it is taken in its recommended dosage.

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