Dextrométhorphane

Dextrométhorphane Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Dextrométhorphane is a brand name. Its generic name is Dextromethorphan.

Dextrométhorphane Introduction

Dextrométhorphane (DXM or DM) is an antitussive (cough suppressant) drug found in many over-the-counter cold and cough medicines. It is also found in some recreational drugs. It works by reducing the activity of the part of the brain that causes coughing.

Uses for Dextrométhorphane

Dextrométhorphane is used to treat coughs associated with colds, flu, or other breathing illnesses. It is also used in combination with pain relievers, antihistamines, and decongestants for symptom relief in the treatment of certain cold and cough medications.

Mechanism of Action

Dextrométhorphane works by affecting signals in the brain that trigger coughing. It does this by blocking the action of sigma receptors, a type of receptor for the neurotransmitter glutamate. By inhibiting the sigma receptors, dextromethorphan is able to suppress the cough reflex.

How Long Does it Take to Work?

Dextrométhorphane typically begins to work within 15 minutes after taking it in liquid form or after 30 minutes if taken in tablet form. It can provide relief from an itchy or dry cough for up to 6 hours.

Absorption

Dextrométhorphane is rapidly and well-absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, reaching peak plasma concentration after 30 to 60 minutes. It undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism and has a bioavailability of only 20%.

Route of Elimination

Dextrométhorphane is primarily metabolized in the liver and then eliminated via the kidneys. Approximately 15% of an oral dose is eliminated unchanged in the urine.

Dosage

The recommended dose of dextromethorphan for children 2-6 years old is 5-10 mg every 4-6 hours, and 10-20 mg every 4-6 hours for children 6-12 years old. The recommended dosage for adults is 30-60 mg every 6-8 hours.

Administration

Dextrométhorphane is available as a tablet, capsule, syrup, and other liquid dosage forms. It should be taken with a full glass of water. It should not be taken with alcohol or with other medications that contain alcohol.

Side Effects

Common side effects of dextromethorphan include dry mouth, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, restlessness, and nausea. More serious side effects include an irregular heartbeat, an inability to urinate, confusion, hallucinations, and agitation.

Toxicity

Dextrométhorphane is considered to be relatively nontoxic when taken at therapeutic doses. At high doses, it can cause excitement, confusion, restlessness, and hallucinations.

Precaution

Patients should avoid taking dextromethorphan if they have been diagnosed with hypertension, as it may worsen the condition. Patients should also avoid taking dextromethorphan with alcohol, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects. In addition, dextromethorphan should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma or asthma.

Interaction

Dextrométhorphane should not be taken concurrently with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as this can increase the risk of adverse effects. It may also interact with other medications, including sedatives, antihistamines, opioids, and antibiotics. Patients should always inform their doctor about any medications they are taking prior to taking dextromethorphan.

Disease Interaction

Dextrométhorphane can worsen symptoms of glaucoma, asthma, and hypertension. Patients with a history of heart disease, seizure disorders, or liver or kidney disease should use caution when taking dextromethorphan. It is contraindicated in patients with a history of stomach ulcers.

Drug Interaction

Dextrométhorphane can interact with other medications, including antibiotics, antihistamines, antifungals, sedatives, opioids, and MAOIs. Patients should always inform their doctor about any medications they are taking prior to taking dextromethorphan. They should also inform their doctor of any allergies they have.

Food Interactions

Dextrométhorphane should be taken with a full glass of water to ensure proper absorption. Alcohol, caffeine, citrus juices, and certain foods may affect the absorption of dextromethorphan, and should be avoided.

Pregnancy Use

Dextrométhorphane should be used with caution in pregnant women. It has been classified as a pregnancy category C medication, meaning that it may be harmful to the developing fetus. Women should consult with their doctor before taking dextromethorphan during pregnancy.

Lactation Use

Dextrométhorphane has been shown to be excreted in breast milk in small amounts. Mother should use caution when using dextromethorphan while breastfeeding. It may be safest to consult with a doctor before using dextromethorphan while breastfeeding.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of an acute overdose of dextromethorphan can include restlessness, excitement, confusion, agitation, hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, irregular heart rate, shallow breathing, and unconsciousness. individuals who have overdosed should seek medical attention immediately.

Contraindication

Dextrométhorphane is contraindicated in patients with a history of stomach ulcers, glaucoma, asthma, or hypertension. It should also be avoided in individuals taking MAOIs or other medications that interact with dextromethorphan.

Use Direction

Dextrométhorphane should be taken as directed by a doctor or pharmacist. It should not be taken more often than prescribed, and should be taken with a full glass of water. Patients should avoid taking dextromethorphan with alcohol, as this can increase the risk of adverse effects.

Storage Condition

Dextrométhorphane should be stored at room temperature and protected from light and moisture. Additionally, any unused medication should be discarded after the expiration date.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for dextromethorphan is approximately 1.4 liters per kilogram

Half Life

The half-life of dextromethorphan is approximately 4 to 6 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of dextromethorphan is approximately 42 liters per hour.

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Some Frequently Asked Questions About Dextrométhorphane

What is Dextrométhorphane?

Dextrométhorphane (DXM) is a cough suppressant and antihistamine used to treat coughs due to certain illnesses. It is available without a prescription and is found in more than 100 over-the-counter and prescription cough and cold products.

Can Dextrométhorphane be abused?

Yes, dextromethorphan can be abused. It has a stimulant and hallucinogenic effect when taken in large amounts, and is commonly referred to as “robo-tripping”.

What are the effects of Dextrométhorphane?

When taken in large doses, dextromethorphan can cause a sense of euphoria, agitation, confusion, dizziness, impaired coordination, blurred vision, and many other side effects.

What is the recommended dose of dextromethorphan?

The recommended dose of dextromethorphan for cough suppression is 10-20 mg every 4-6 hours, up to a maximum daily dose of 120 mg/day.

Are there any risks associated with taking Dextrométhorphane?

Yes, there are some risks associated with taking dextromethorphan in large doses. These can include changes in heart rate and blood pressure, nausea and vomiting, liver problems, confusion, and hallucinations.

Can I take Dextrométhorphane while breastfeeding?

Dextrométhorphane is excreted into breast milk. It is generally recommended that women who are breastfeeding avoid taking dextromethorphan.

What are the signs of Dextrométhorphane abuse?

Signs of dextromethorphan abuse may include slurred speech, poor coordination, red and glassy eyes, agitation, confusion, sleep disturbances, decreased appetite, skin flushing, and abdominal pain.

Can Dextrométhorphane be detected in a drug test?

No, dextromethorphan does not show up on standard drug tests.

Is Dextrométhorphane addictive?

No, dextromethorphan is not considered to be addictive.

How long does Dextrométhorphane stay in the body?

The effects of dextromethorphan usually last for 3-6 hours. In most cases, the drug can be detected in the body for up to 24 hours after ingestion.

What are the long-term effects of Dextrométhorphane abuse?

Long-term effects of dextromethorphan abuse can include memory impairment, liver damage, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, paranoia, and depression.

Can Dextrométhorphane be used to treat depression?

No, dextromethorphan is not recommended for use in treating depression.

Can taking Dextrométhorphane cause hallucinations?

Yes, in high doses, dextromethorphan can produce visual and auditory hallucinations.

What is the legal status of Dextrométhorphane?

Dextrométhorphane is available without a prescription in most countries and is classified as a drug of abuse due to its abuse potential.

Is there a risk of overdose with Dextrométhorphane?

Yes, there is a risk of overdose with dextromethorphan use, especially when taken in combination with other drugs. Symptoms of an overdose may include nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, confusion, seizures, coma, and death.

What other drugs should not be taken with Dextrométhorphane?

Dextrométhorphane should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine, as they may increase the risk of side effects. Dextrométhorphane should also not be taken with opioid medications, alcohol, or sedatives.

Can Dextrométhorphane cause seizures?

Yes, in large doses or when combined with other medications, dextromethorphan can cause seizures.

Can cytochrome P450 enzymes be inhibited by Dextrométhorphane?

Yes, dextromethorphan can inhibit the activity of certain cytochrome P450 enzymes, which can result in decreased effectiveness or increased side effects of drugs metabolized by these enzymes.

What is the half-life of Dextrométhorphane?

The average half-life of dextromethorphan is 3.8 hours.

What is Robotripping?

Robotripping refers to the recreational use of dextromethorphan in order to achieve a stimulant and hallucinogenic effect.

What are the street names for Dextrométhorphane?

Common street names for dextromethorphan include Dex, DM, Syrup, DXM, Robo, Triple C, CCC, Skittles, Velvet, Candy, and Poor Man's PCP.

Is Dextrométhorphane safe for children?

Dextrométhorphane is generally considered to be safe for children, when taken as directed. However, parents and caregivers should be aware of potential side effects and risks, such as the risk of overdose, and use caution when administering the drug to children.

What is high-dose Dextrométhorphane abuse?

High-dose dextromethorphan abuse is defined as taking more than 4 times the recommended dosage of dextromethorphan, typically via syrup, gel-caps, or powder formulations, in order to produce psychoactive effects.

What is an anticholinergic effect of Dextrométhorphane?

Dextrométhorphane has anticholinergic properties, which can result in dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, and other side effects.

What are the signs of toxicity with Dextrométhorphane?

Signs of toxicity with dextromethorphan use may include nerve and muscle tremors, elevated blood pressure, rapid heart rate, and difficulty breathing.

How is Dextrométhorphane metabolized?

Dextrométhorphane is metabolized in the liver by an enzyme known as CYP2D6, which is responsible for metabolizing up to 30% of known medications.

Does Dextrométhorphane have any interaction with alcohol?

Yes, dextromethorphan can interact with alcohol, increasing the risk of side effects and overdose. Therefore, it is not advised to combine the two.

Can Dextrométhorphane cause psychosis?

Yes, in high doses, dextromethorphan can produce psychotic symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, or confusion.

Does Dextrométhorphane cause withdrawal symptoms?

No, dextromethorphan does not usually cause withdrawal symptoms. However, people who have consistently abused dextromethorphan may experience some psychological and physical symptoms upon discontinuation.

What is the most common side effect of Dextrométhorphane?

The most common side effect of dextromethorphan is nausea.

Can Dextrométhorphane cause liver damage?

Yes, high doses of dextromethorphan can cause liver damage, especially when taken in combination with other drugs.

Can overdose with Dextrométhorphane be treated?

Yes, if an overdose with dextromethorphan is detected early, it can be treated with supportive care. Gastrointestinal decontamination may be helpful, as may administration of activated charcoal, fluids, and other medications.

What are the dangers of Dextrométhorphane abuse?

The dangers of dextromethorphan abuse include risks of overdose, liver damage, cognitive impairment, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory depression, and death.

What is Dextrométhorphane Polistirex?

Dextrométhorphane Polistirex is a time-release form of dextromethorphan that slowly releases the medication over a 12-hour period.

What conditions are treated with Dextrométhorphane?

Dextrométhorphane is commonly used to treat dry coughs due to upper respiratory infections, bronchitis, common cold, and other illnesses.

What other medicines should not be taken with Dextrométhorphane?

Dextrométhorphane should not be taken with MAOIs, SSRIs, opioid medications, muscle relaxants, sleeping pills, or alcohol.

Can Dextrométhorphane cause confusion?

Yes, in large doses, dextromethorphan can cause confusion and disorientation.