Delsym

Description

No description information is available for the specified 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 helps to loosen phlegm (mucus) and thin bronchial secretions, facilitating the clearance of mucus from the bronchial passageways and making coughs more productive.

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

There are no teratogenic or nonteratogenic effects mentioned in the available data.

Dosage and Administration

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to adhere strictly to the following dosage and administration guidelines.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 20 mL, to be measured using the dosing cup provided, every 4 hours as needed. It is imperative that patients do not exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period.

For children under 12 years of age, the product is not recommended and should not be used.

Patients should be instructed to use only the dosing cup included with the product for measurement and to refrain from using this cup with any other products to ensure accurate dosing.

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.

Exceeding the recommended dosage while using this product is also contraindicated.

Warnings and Precautions

Use of this product is contraindicated in individuals currently taking prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), which are commonly prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson's disease. Additionally, it is advised to refrain from using this product for a minimum of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Healthcare professionals should be consulted if there is uncertainty regarding the presence of an MAOI in a prescribed medication.

Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and seek medical advice if a cough persists for more than seven days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the individual should contact a Poison Control Center without delay.

For individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional prior to using this product to ensure safety for both the mother and child.

This product should be stored out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with this product. Serious adverse reactions may occur, particularly in individuals who are currently taking or have recently discontinued a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). The use of this product is contraindicated in such cases, and patients are advised to consult a healthcare professional if they are uncertain about their medication.

Common adverse reactions may include persistent or chronic cough, especially in patients with underlying conditions such as smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Patients experiencing a cough that is accompanied by excessive phlegm should also seek medical advice prior to use.

Patients are instructed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if their cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a more serious underlying condition that requires medical evaluation.

For pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, it is recommended to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before using this product. Additionally, this product should be kept out of reach of children, and in the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance or contact with a Poison Control Center is essential.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of this medication with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. Patients should not take this medication while on an MAOI or for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. The combination may result in serious interactions that could pose significant health risks.

No additional drug interactions or laboratory test interactions have been identified for this medication. Therefore, no further dosage adjustments or monitoring recommendations are necessary beyond the contraindication with MAOIs.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Delsym (dextromethorphan hydrobromide and guaifenesin). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

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 important to note that no more than 6 doses should be taken within a 24-hour period. The dosing cup included with the product must be used exclusively for this medication and should not be utilized with other products to ensure accurate measurement.

Geriatric Use

There is no specific information available regarding the use of this medication in geriatric patients, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to elderly patients, as individual responses may vary. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in efficacy.

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 not been specifically addressed in the available prescribing information. There are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or safety considerations outlined for individuals with reduced kidney function. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of data when prescribing to this patient population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to this medication. Consequently, there are no 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 aware that the specific symptoms of an overdose may vary depending on the substance involved. Therefore, a thorough assessment of the patient's condition is essential to determine the appropriate course of action.

Management of an overdose typically involves supportive care and symptomatic treatment. This may include monitoring vital signs, providing respiratory support, and administering activated charcoal if indicated and within the appropriate time frame. In cases where specific antidotes are available, their use should be considered based on the clinical scenario.

It is essential for healthcare providers to remain vigilant and prepared to implement these measures swiftly to ensure optimal patient outcomes in cases of overdose.

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

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to keep this medication out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion. In the event of an overdose, patients should be instructed to seek medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Patients must be informed not to use this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken one within the last two weeks. It is important for patients to consult with their doctor or pharmacist if they are unsure whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Healthcare providers should counsel patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if their cough persists for more than 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious condition that requires medical attention.

Patients should be reminded to adhere strictly to the recommended dosage and not exceed the directed amount while using this product. Additionally, healthcare providers should encourage patients to seek medical advice before using this medication if they have a persistent or chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. It is also advisable for patients to consult a doctor 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 is essential to store the product at a controlled temperature range of 20-25°C (68-77°F). Refrigeration is not permitted, as exposure to lower temperatures may compromise the integrity of the product. Proper handling and storage conditions must be adhered to in order to maintain product efficacy and safety.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally, with a recommended dosage of 20 mL every 4 hours for adults and children aged 12 years and older. Patients should not exceed 6 doses within a 24-hour period.

Clinicians should counsel patients to consult a health professional if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children, and in the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.

Drug Information (PDF)

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

View product document (PDF)