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Basic Care Cough Dm

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Active ingredient
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 30 mg/5 mL
Other brand names
Dosage form
Suspension
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
September 15, 2025
Active ingredient
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 30 mg/5 mL
Other brand names
Dosage form
Suspension
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2021
Label revision date
September 15, 2025
Manufacturer
Sixarp, LLC
Registration number
ANDA091135
NDC root
59368-275

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Drug Overview

Dextromethorphan Polistirex Extended-Release Oral Suspension is a cough suppressant designed to help relieve coughing caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can occur with the common cold or from inhaled irritants. This medication works by temporarily reducing the urge to cough, making it easier for you to rest or sleep.

This product provides up to 12 hours of cough relief and is alcohol-free, making it suitable for both day and night use. It comes in an orange-flavored liquid form and includes a dosing cup for easy measurement.

Uses

You can use this medication to temporarily relieve a cough caused by minor irritation in your throat and bronchial tubes, which can happen with the common cold or from inhaling irritants. If you're having trouble sleeping because of a persistent cough, this medication can also help reduce the urge to cough, allowing you to get a better night's rest.

Rest assured, there are no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) associated with this medication, making it a safer option for those concerned about such risks.

Dosage and Administration

Before you use this medication, make sure to shake the bottle well. It's important to measure your dose using only the dosing cup that comes with the product, as using a different cup could lead to incorrect dosing.

For adults and children aged 12 and older, the recommended dose is 10 mL every 12 hours, but you should not take more than 20 mL in a 24-hour period. If your child is between 6 and 12 years old, the dose is 5 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum of 10 mL in a day. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, the dose is 2.5 mL every 12 hours, not exceeding 5 mL in 24 hours. Please do not use this medication for children under 4 years of age. Always follow your doctor’s instructions if they provide different guidance.

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 used for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, do not use it for at least two weeks after stopping an MAOI. If you're unsure whether your prescription includes an MAOI, please consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product.

Be aware that this product contains sodium metabisulfite, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Always prioritize your safety and well-being by following these guidelines closely.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this medication contains sodium metabisulfite, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. If you experience any side effects, it's important to stop using the medication and consult your doctor. Additionally, if your cough lasts more than seven days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, these may indicate a more serious health issue, and you should seek medical attention. You can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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. Additionally, be aware that this product contains sodium metabisulfite, which can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Before using this product, it's important to talk to your doctor if you have a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if your cough produces a lot of mucus. You should stop using the product and contact your doctor if you experience any side effects, if your cough lasts more than seven days, or if it returns with fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a more serious issue.

In the event of an overdose, seek emergency medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately. You can contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance. Signs of an overdose can vary, but they may include unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing.

Always take overdosing seriously. If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to reach out for help right away. Your safety is 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

When giving this medication to children, it's important to follow the recommended dosages based on their age. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the dosage is 5 mL every 12 hours, but you should not exceed 10 mL in a 24-hour period. For younger children aged 4 to under 6 years, the dosage is 2.5 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum of 5 mL in 24 hours.

Please note that this medication is not recommended for children under 4 years of age, so it's crucial to avoid using it for that age group. Always consult with your child's healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about their medication.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there are no specific guidelines or recommendations regarding age-related dosage adjustments or safety concerns. This means that, while the medication can be prescribed to older patients, healthcare providers may not have tailored information to ensure its safe and effective use in this age group.

If you are caring for an older adult, it’s important to discuss any potential risks or benefits with their healthcare provider. Always monitor for any unusual side effects or changes in health, as older adults may respond differently to medications.

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 should be used if you have renal impairment (kidney issues).

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any medication you take is safe and appropriate for your health situation. They can help you understand how to manage your treatment effectively while considering your kidney health.

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 differently due to your liver health.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns you may have regarding your liver condition and the use of this medication. They can help ensure that you receive the safest and most effective treatment.

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 feel free to ask questions and share your complete list of medications and any tests you might be undergoing. This way, you can avoid any potential issues and receive the best care possible.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best results, store the product at a temperature between 20 °C to 25 °C (68 °F to 77 °F). Before using, make sure to shake the bottle well to mix the contents thoroughly. When measuring your dose, always use the dosing cup provided, as using it with other products can lead to inaccurate dosing or contamination.

By following these simple steps, you can safely handle and store the product, ensuring its effectiveness and your safety.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. Before using it, consult your doctor if you have a chronic cough related to smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if your cough is accompanied by excessive mucus (phlegm). Additionally, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional before starting this medication.

FAQ

What is Dextromethorphan Polistirex Extended-Release Oral Suspension used for?

It is a cough suppressant that temporarily relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur with the common cold or inhaled irritants.

How should I take Dextromethorphan Polistirex?

Shake the bottle well before use and measure only with the dosing cup provided. Adults and children 12 years and over should take 10 mL every 12 hours, not exceeding 20 mL in 24 hours.

Are there any age restrictions for using this medication?

Do not use this medication in children under 4 years of age. For children 4 to under 6 years, the dose is 2.5 mL every 12 hours, and for children 6 to under 12 years, it is 5 mL every 12 hours.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop use and ask a doctor if side effects occur. You can report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Can I use Dextromethorphan Polistirex if I am taking other medications?

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

Is there an allergy alert for this medication?

Yes, it contains sodium metabisulfite, which may cause allergic-type reactions.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Is this medication safe to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

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

What is the flavor of Dextromethorphan Polistirex?

It is an orange-flavored liquid.

How should I store Dextromethorphan Polistirex?

Store it at 20 °C to 25 °C (68 °F to 77 °F).

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Basic Care Cough Dm (dextromethorphan polistirex). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Basic Care Cough Dm.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Basic Care Cough 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.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur with the common cold or as a result of inhaled irritants. Additionally, it is indicated for the temporary relief of the impulse to cough, facilitating sleep.

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

Dosage and Administration

The bottle should be shaken well before use. Dosing must be measured exclusively with the dosing cup provided; the dosing cup should not be used with any other products to ensure accurate measurement.

For adults and children aged 12 years and older, the recommended dose is 10 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum limit of 20 mL within a 24-hour period. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the dosage is 5 mL every 12 hours, not to exceed 10 mL in a 24-hour period. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, the appropriate dose is 2.5 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum of 5 mL in 24 hours. This product is not recommended for use in children under 4 years of age.

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to follow these dosing guidelines or any specific instructions provided by their physician.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease, and for a period of 2 weeks following the cessation of MAOI therapy. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Additionally, this product contains sodium metabisulfite, which may provoke allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals.

Warnings and Precautions

Patients should not use this product if they are currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, the product should not be used for at least two weeks after discontinuing 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.

Allergy Alert This product contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may provoke allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals.

General Precautions Before using this product, patients should seek medical advice if they have a chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if they experience a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Stop Taking and Call Your Doctor Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if any side effects occur. Side effects can be reported to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. Furthermore, if a cough persists for more than seven days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that lasts, these may indicate a serious condition requiring medical attention.

Get Emergency Medical Help In the event of an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this product.

Allergic reactions may occur due to the presence of sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that can trigger allergic-type responses in susceptible individuals. Therefore, it is advised that patients with known allergies to sulfites avoid using this product.

In the event that side effects manifest, patients are encouraged to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. It is important to report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Additionally, patients should seek medical attention if their cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition that requires further evaluation.

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 Basic Care Cough Dm (dextromethorphan polistirex). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Basic Care Cough Dm.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 6 to under 12 years may be administered 5 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum dosage of 10 mL in a 24-hour period. For children aged 4 to under 6 years, the recommended dosage is 2.5 mL every 12 hours, not to exceed 5 mL in 24 hours. Use is not recommended for children under 4 years of age.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific recommendations regarding age considerations, 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 potential for altered pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in 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 safe use during pregnancy and lactation.

Lactation

Lactating mothers are advised to consult a health professional prior to using this medication. There is currently no available data on the excretion of this drug 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 drug insert regarding dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations. Therefore, healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to individuals with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment. Regular monitoring of renal function may be advisable in these patients to ensure safety and efficacy.

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. Healthcare professionals are advised to call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for guidance on managing the situation effectively.

Prompt intervention is crucial in mitigating potential adverse effects associated with overdose. Symptoms may vary depending on the substance involved, and healthcare providers should be prepared to assess and manage these symptoms as they arise.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific clinical presentation of the patient. Continuous monitoring and evaluation are essential to ensure patient safety and to address any complications that may develop as a result of the overdose.

Nonclinical Toxicology

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

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified that side effects may occur with the use of the product. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report any adverse events to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Additionally, it has been noted that a cough persisting for more than 7 days, or a cough that recurs or is accompanied by fever, rash, or headache, may indicate the presence of a serious underlying condition.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients to seek immediate medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 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 also be cautioned against using this product for 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.

Providers should alert patients to the presence of sodium metabisulfite in the formulation, which may trigger allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals. Patients should be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience any side effects. Additionally, they may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Patients should be advised to stop using the product and seek medical advice if their cough persists for more than seven days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that lasts, as these symptoms may indicate a serious condition. It is also important for healthcare providers to recommend that patients consult a doctor before using this product if they have a chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if their cough is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a bottle that requires careful handling and storage to maintain its efficacy. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20 °C to 25 °C (68 °F to 77 °F). Prior to use, the bottle must be shaken well to ensure proper mixing of the contents.

For accurate dosing, it is essential to use only the dosing cup provided with the product. The dosing cup should not be used with any other products to prevent cross-contamination and ensure precise measurement.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients to consult a doctor prior to use if they have a chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema, or if they experience a cough accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus). Additionally, patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding should seek guidance from a health professional before using the medication. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Basic Care Cough 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 Basic Care Cough 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.