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Cough and Chest Congestion Dm

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Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
December 29, 2025
Active ingredients
  • Guaifenesin 400 mg/20 mL
  • Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 20 mg/20 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Expectorant, Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Dosage form
Solution
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2025
Label revision date
December 29, 2025
Manufacturer
CVS WOONSOCKET PRESCRIPTION CENTER, INCORPORATED
Registration number
M012
NDC root
51316-389

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If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

CVS Cough & Chest Congestion DM is a maximum strength medication designed to provide multi-symptom relief for chest congestion. It contains two active ingredients: dextromethorphan HBr, which acts as a cough suppressant, and guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions. This combination works to make coughs more productive by clearing mucus from the bronchial passageways, while also temporarily relieving cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, such as that from the common cold or inhaled irritants.

This product is suitable for individuals aged 12 and older and is available in a pleasant berry flavor. It can help reduce the intensity of coughing and the impulse to cough, making it easier for you to rest and sleep.

Uses

This medication is designed to help you breathe easier by loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions. This action helps clear out bothersome mucus from your airways, making your coughs more productive.

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve coughing caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can happen with the common cold or from inhaling irritants. It also helps reduce the intensity of your cough and can lessen the urge to cough, making it easier for you to get a good night's sleep.

Dosage and Administration

It's important to follow the dosage instructions carefully to ensure your safety and effectiveness of the medication. You should not take more than the directed amount, and make sure not to exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period. Always use the dose cup that comes with the medication for accurate measurement.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL every 4 hours. However, if you are caring for children under 12 years old, this medication is not suitable for them, and you should not use it. If you have any questions or need further guidance, consult your doctor.

What to Avoid

You should avoid using this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication often prescribed for depression, psychiatric conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, you should not use this product for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you are unsure whether your prescription includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.

It's important to follow these guidelines to prevent potential serious interactions and ensure your safety. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any medications you are taking.

Side Effects

You should be aware of some important warnings and potential side effects when using this medication. First, do not take it if you are currently using a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication for depression or certain other conditions, or for two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If your cough lasts more than a week, comes back frequently, or is accompanied by a fever, rash, or persistent headache, stop using the medication and seek medical advice, as these could indicate a more serious issue. Additionally, consult your doctor before using this product if you have a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if your cough produces excessive mucus. Always keep this medication out of reach of children, and in case of an overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Warnings and Precautions

You should not use this product if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which is a type of medication used for depression or certain other conditions, or if you have stopped taking an MAOI within the last two weeks. If you're unsure whether your medication contains an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product.

Before using this product, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have a persistent cough due to smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if your cough is accompanied by excessive mucus. If your cough lasts more than a week, keeps coming back, or is accompanied by a fever, rash, or persistent headache, stop using the product and contact your doctor, as these may be signs of a more serious issue.

In the event of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Your health and safety are important, so please take these precautions seriously.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual symptoms that are more severe than typical side effects.

Always err on the side of caution—if you notice anything concerning, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional assistance. Your health and safety are the top priority.

Pregnancy Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this medication. They can provide guidance on whether it’s safe for you and your baby. Always prioritize your health and the health of your child by seeking expert advice.

Lactation Use

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any medication. This ensures that you understand any potential risks and can make informed decisions about your health and the health of your baby. Always prioritize open communication with your doctor regarding your breastfeeding journey.

Pediatric Use

It's important to be cautious when using this medication for children. If your child is under 12 years old, you should not use this product. For those aged 12 and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL, taken every 4 hours using the dosing cup provided.

Always keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center for assistance. Your child's safety is the top priority, so please follow these guidelines carefully.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if your kidneys are not functioning properly.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your kidney health. They can help monitor your condition and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the drug insert does not provide specific information about dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions for your condition. This means that there are no tailored guidelines for how this medication may affect you if you have hepatic impairment (liver issues).

Before starting any new medication, including this one, you should discuss your liver health with your healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach for your treatment and ensure your safety.

Drug Interactions

It's important to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about any medications or tests you may be taking. While there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication, your healthcare provider can help ensure that everything you are taking works well together and is safe for you. Always share your complete list of medications and any health conditions you have to receive the best care possible.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature of 25°C (77°F). It can safely be kept in a range between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F) for short periods. Always check the expiration date on the package and use the product before this date to guarantee its effectiveness.

When handling the product, make sure to do so in a clean environment to maintain its integrity. Following these guidelines will help you use the product safely and effectively.

Additional Information

You will take this medication orally. There are no additional details available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experiences. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

FAQ

What is CVS COUGH & CHEST CONGESTION DM?

CVS COUGH & CHEST CONGESTION DM is a maximum strength cough syrup that contains Dextromethorphan HBr (a cough suppressant) and Guaifenesin (an expectorant) for multi-symptom relief of chest congestion.

How does CVS COUGH & CHEST CONGESTION DM work?

It helps loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive while temporarily relieving cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation.

What is the recommended dosage for adults and children over 12?

The recommended dosage is 20 mL every 4 hours, using the dosing cup provided, and do not exceed 6 doses in a 24-hour period.

Are there any contraindications for using this product?

Do not use if you are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last 2 weeks.

What should I do if my cough persists?

Stop use and ask a doctor if your cough persists for more than 1 week, tends to recur, or is accompanied by a fever, rash, or persistent headache.

Is it safe to use CVS COUGH & CHEST CONGESTION DM during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a health professional before use.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

What are the storage instructions for this product?

Store at 25°C (77°F), with permitted excursions between 15°-30°C (59°-86°F), and use by the expiration date on the package.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cough and Chest Congestion Dm (dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cough and Chest Congestion Dm.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cough and Chest Congestion Dm, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

No description information is available for the drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur due to the common cold or inhaled irritants. It aids in loosening phlegm (mucus) and thinning bronchial secretions, thereby facilitating the expulsion of bothersome mucus and enhancing the productivity of coughs.

Additionally, this drug temporarily alleviates the intensity of coughing and reduces the impulse to cough, which may assist patients in achieving restful sleep.

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects associated with this drug.

Dosage and Administration

Patients should adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and administration guidelines. The maximum allowable dosage is 6 doses within a 24-hour period. It is imperative that only the dose cup provided with the medication is utilized for accurate measurement.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL, administered every 4 hours as needed. For children under 12 years of age, the use of this medication is not recommended.

Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients understand the importance of not exceeding the directed dosage to avoid potential adverse effects.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, use is contraindicated for a period of 2 weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if they are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Warnings and Precautions

Do not use this product if the patient is currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, the product should not be used for at least two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. If there is uncertainty regarding whether a prescription drug contains an MAOI, it is imperative to consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, prior to use.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to seek medical guidance before using this product if they have a persistent or chronic cough, particularly if it is associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Furthermore, patients with a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) should also consult a healthcare provider before use.

Patients are instructed to discontinue use and contact a healthcare professional if their cough persists for more than one week, recurs, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.

In the event of an overdose, it is critical to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the following warnings and precautions associated with the use of this product. It is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, it should not be used for at least 2 weeks after discontinuing an MAOI. Patients uncertain about whether their prescription includes an MAOI are advised to consult a healthcare professional.

Patients are instructed to stop using the product and seek medical advice if their cough persists for more than one week, recurs, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Before using this product, patients should consult a healthcare provider if they have a persistent or chronic cough, such as that associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if their cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

This product should be kept out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there is no information available regarding interactions with laboratory tests. As such, no specific recommendations for dosage adjustments or monitoring are warranted at this time.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Cough and Chest Congestion Dm (dextromethorphan hbr, guaifenesin). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cough and Chest Congestion Dm.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients under 12 years of age should not use this medication. For adolescents aged 12 years and older, the recommended dosage is 20 mL, administered using the dosing cup provided, every 4 hours as needed.

It is essential to keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

Pregnant patients and those who are breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional prior to using this medication. The potential risks and benefits must be carefully weighed, as the effects on fetal outcomes and lactation are not fully established. It is essential for women of childbearing potential to seek medical advice to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data regarding the excretion of this medication in human breast milk or its effects on breastfed infants. Therefore, caution is recommended when administering this medication to lactating individuals.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have no specific information regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations provided in the drug insert. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the lack of data necessitates careful clinical judgment.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the prescribing information.

Overdosage

In the event of an overdose, it is imperative to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center without delay. Prompt intervention is crucial to mitigate potential adverse effects associated with the overdose.

Healthcare professionals should be vigilant in monitoring for symptoms that may arise from an overdose. While specific symptoms are not detailed in the provided information, it is essential to remain alert to any signs of toxicity or adverse reactions that may develop.

Management of an overdose should be guided by established protocols and may involve supportive care, symptomatic treatment, and specific antidotes if applicable. Continuous assessment of the patient's condition is necessary to ensure appropriate interventions are implemented in a timely manner.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breastfeeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. No specific non-teratogenic effects have been identified in the available data. Additionally, there are no detailed findings regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology provided in the current information.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified several adverse reactions reported voluntarily or through surveillance programs. These include allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis and angioedema. Serious skin reactions have also been noted, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis. Additionally, neuropsychiatric events, including hallucinations, confusion, and agitation, have been reported. Respiratory depression has been observed, particularly in patients with underlying respiratory conditions.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center in the event of an overdose. It is crucial to inform patients that this product should not be used concurrently with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Patients should be instructed to refrain from using this product for at least two weeks after discontinuing an MAOI. If patients are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI, they should be encouraged to consult with their doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product.

Patients should also be informed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if their cough persists for more than one week, recurs, or is accompanied by symptoms such as fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Additionally, healthcare providers should recommend that patients seek medical advice before using this product if they have a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema, or if their cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in various package configurations, with specific NDC numbers available for identification. It should be stored at a controlled room temperature of 25°C (77°F), with permissible excursions between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It is essential to adhere to the expiration date indicated on the package to ensure product efficacy and safety.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. There are no additional details available regarding laboratory tests, abuse information, patient counseling, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Cough and Chest Congestion Dm, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Cough and Chest Congestion Dm, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

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Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.