Antitussive DM: Uses, indications and precautions when using

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Cough is a relatively uncomfortable sign for many people, cough can be caused by many different respiratory diseases, one of which is a cough caused by a cold. For treatment, patients can use cough suppressants, including a combination product, Antitussive DM.

1. What is Antitussive DM?

Antitussive DM is a combination product of Guaifenesin and Dextromethorphan, used as a cough suppressant due to colds, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions. Guaifenesin is an expectorant drug that thins viscous sputum and opens the airways, helping patients breathe easier. Dextromethorphan belongs to the group of cough suppressants, which work by acting directly on the brain's cough control center. Patients with respiratory diseases, coughs caused by colds and self-medication buying Antitussive DM for treatment should carefully read the instructions on the product packaging before starting to use it to ensure it is suitable for their current condition.
Cough and cold medicines have not been shown to be safe or effective for children under 6 years of age. Therefore, do not use this cough suppressant in children 6 years of age unless specifically directed by a doctor.
Antitussive DM only treats cough symptoms caused by colds or other respiratory diseases, does not treat the cause of the disease, so it does not help patients recover or shorten the duration of the disease.
Long-term use of Antitussive DM can cause many unwanted effects, so to minimize this risk patients need to carefully follow the dosage instructions.
Also, do not take different cold cough suppressants that contain the same active ingredients at the same time, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

2. How to use Antitussive DM

Antitussive DM is used orally with or without food, it is best to use it as directed by your doctor. For patients who buy their own over-the-counter medications, they should follow all directions on the product packaging when using them.
When using cough medicine due to cold, the patient should drink a lot of water to help dilute the viscous sputum, making the airways more open.
The dose of Antitussive DM is prescribed based on the individual's age, medical condition and tolerability. Do not increase the dose on your own or take the medication more than once or more often than directed.
When using Antitussive DM solution, it is necessary to measure the dose carefully with a special measuring instrument or spoon, do not use a household spoon. Antitussive DM is a powder pack, when using the patient, put the entire powder on the tongue and swallow, do not chew. For Antitussive DM capsules, patients are asked to swallow the capsule whole when taking it. Improper use of Antitussive DM by patients or overuse of it can lead to serious harm such as brain damage, seizures, and even death. Therefore, it is necessary to follow the doctor's instructions and the instructions on the package, do not increase the dose, take it more often or for longer than prescribed.
Inform physician if patient coughs again, coughs more or is accompanied by fever, severe sore throat, rash, headache, or if condition persists or worsens after 7 days of taking the medicine.

3. Side effects of Antitussive DM

Common side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, nausea and vomiting. If the above symptoms persist or worsen, notify your doctor or healthcare provider immediately.
Antitussive DM rarely causes serious allergic reactions, patients should get medical help if they have symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, severe difficulty breathing.

4. Antitussive cough suppressant drug interactions

Drug interactions are factors that affect cough relief from colds and increase the risk of unwanted side effects. Patients should tell their doctor about all medications they are taking (including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products).
During the use of Antitussive DM, the patient should not arbitrarily use, stop or change the dosage of any drug without the approval of the doctor.
Some MAO inhibitors can cause serious interactions with Antitussive DM (possibly fatal). Therefore, this cough suppressant should not be used concomitantly with isocarboxazid, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, or tranylcypromine. In addition, most MAO inhibitors should not be taken for 2 weeks prior to treatment with Antitussive DM.
Guaifenesin and dextromethorphan are found in many different products, both prescription and over-the-counter. Patients should check the ingredients of their medications to make sure they are not taking multiple cold cough suppressants that contain guaifenesin or dextromethorphan. If you take more than the prescribed dose, you may experience symptoms such as: severe drowsiness, blurred vision, confusion, hallucinations, slow or shallow breathing, convulsions.
Antitussive DM should only be used temporarily, do not use it for more than 7 days unless directed by your doctor. Therefore, notify your doctor if the condition persists and persists for more than 7 days.
The use of Antitussive DM according to instructions always brings high efficiency in treatment as well as minimizes side effects when used.
Besides, patients also need to note, after taking the medicine, if the cough does not improve, it is best to see a doctor for examination and advice on changing prescriptions or having other more suitable indications. .
Vinmec International General Hospital always has leading, highly specialized, experienced doctors and experts who have worked at major hospitals across the country who will directly participate in the examination and consultation process. consultation for the patient. With good medical quality and modern facilities, patients can rest assured for examination and treatment at the Hospital.

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Reference source: webmd.com