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Cough Dm

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Active ingredient
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 30 mg/5 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Dosage form
Suspension, Extended Release
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2015
Label revision date
January 2, 2026
Active ingredient
Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide 30 mg/5 mL
Other brand names
Drug classes
Sigma-1 Agonist, Uncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate Receptor Antagonist
Dosage form
Suspension, Extended Release
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2015
Label revision date
January 2, 2026
Manufacturer
Meijer Distribution Inc
Registration number
ANDA091135
NDC root
41250-494

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Drug Overview

Cough DM is a grape-flavored liquid medication known as Dextromethorphan Polistirex Extended-Release Oral Suspension. It acts as a cough suppressant, providing temporary relief from coughing caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can occur with the common cold or from inhaled irritants. This medication helps control the urge to cough, making it easier for you to get to sleep, and offers relief for up to 12 hours, day or night.

Cough DM is alcohol-free and designed for convenient use, allowing you to manage your cough effectively.

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 the 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 it with other products can 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, they should take 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 conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, do not use this product 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 for clarification.

It's also important to note 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.

Side Effects

You should be aware that this medication contains sodium metabisulfite, which can cause allergic reactions in some people. 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 7 days, returns, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a persistent headache, these may indicate a more serious condition that requires 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. If you have recently stopped taking an MAOI, wait at least two weeks before using this product. 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 is accompanied by excessive 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 symptoms like fever, rash, or a persistent headache, as these may indicate a more serious issue. In the event of an overdose, seek emergency medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose

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

Do not wait for symptoms to worsen; getting prompt assistance can be vital. Always keep emergency contact information handy and be aware of the signs of overdose to ensure your safety and well-being.

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 12 years and older, the dosage is 10 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum of 20 mL in a 24-hour period. For those between 6 and 12 years old, the dosage is 5 mL every 12 hours, not exceeding 10 mL in a day. If your child is between 4 and 6 years old, they should receive 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. Always ensure you adhere to these guidelines to keep your child safe and healthy.

Geriatric Use

While there is no specific information available about the use of this medication in older adults, it’s important to approach any new treatment with caution. If you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s always a good idea to discuss any medications with a healthcare provider. They can help ensure that the treatment is safe and appropriate, considering any unique health needs or conditions that may be present.

Since there are no dosage adjustments or special precautions mentioned for elderly patients, your healthcare provider will be the best resource for personalized advice. They can monitor for any potential side effects and make recommendations based on individual health status. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure the best outcomes.

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. Currently, there are no specific drug interactions or laboratory test interactions noted for this medication. However, every individual’s health situation is unique, and your provider can help ensure that your treatment plan is safe and effective for you. Always feel free to ask questions and share all the medications and supplements you are using to avoid any potential issues.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best performance of your product, store it at a temperature between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). This temperature range helps maintain the product's effectiveness and safety.

When using the product, a dosing cup is provided to help you measure the correct amount easily. Always handle the product with care to avoid contamination and ensure it remains safe for use.

Additional Information

You should take this medication orally. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using it. Always keep this medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, seek medical help immediately or contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for assistance.

FAQ

What is Cough DM?

Cough DM is a dextromethorphan polistirex extended-release oral suspension that acts as a cough suppressant.

What does Cough DM do?

It temporarily relieves cough due to minor throat and bronchial irritation, helping you get to sleep.

How should I take Cough DM?

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

Are there any contraindications for using Cough DM?

Do not use Cough DM if you are taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or for 2 weeks after stopping an MAOI.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop using Cough DM and ask a doctor if side effects occur, or if your cough lasts more than 7 days or comes back with fever, rash, or headache.

Is Cough DM safe for children?

Cough DM is not recommended for children under 4 years of age. For children 4 to under 6 years, the dose is 2.5 mL every 12 hours, not exceeding 5 mL in 24 hours.

Can I use Cough DM if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a health professional before using Cough DM.

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.

What are the storage instructions for Cough DM?

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

Does Cough DM contain any allergens?

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

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Cough Dm.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for 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 for the drug.

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 use of this cup with other products is not recommended.

For dosing, the following guidelines should be adhered to, or as directed by a healthcare professional:

  • Adults and children 12 years of age and over: Administer 10 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum dosage of 20 mL within a 24-hour period.

  • Children 6 to under 12 years of age: Administer 5 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum dosage of 10 mL within a 24-hour period.

  • Children 4 to under 6 years of age: Administer 2.5 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum dosage of 5 mL within a 24-hour period.

  • Children under 4 years of age: The product is not recommended for use in this age group.

Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients are informed of these dosing instructions to promote safe and effective use of the medication.

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 discontinuation of an MAOI. Patients should consult a healthcare professional if uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Additionally, this product contains sodium metabisulfite, which may cause allergic-type reactions in individuals with sulfite sensitivity.

Warnings and Precautions

The use of this product is contraindicated in individuals currently taking a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), which includes certain medications prescribed for depression, psychiatric or emotional conditions, or Parkinson’s disease. It is also advised to refrain from using this product for a minimum of two weeks following the discontinuation of an MAOI. Healthcare professionals should counsel patients to verify with their doctor or pharmacist if they are uncertain whether their prescription medication contains an MAOI.

Allergy Alert This product contains sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may provoke allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals. Healthcare providers should be vigilant in assessing patients for any history of sulfite sensitivity.

General Precautions Prior to recommending this product, healthcare professionals should inquire whether the patient has a chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Additionally, caution is warranted if the patient presents with a cough that is accompanied by excessive phlegm (mucus).

Stop Taking and Call Your Doctor Instructions Patients should be advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider if they experience any side effects. 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 headache that lasts, these may indicate a serious underlying condition requiring medical evaluation.

Get Emergency Medical Help Instructions In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the patient should contact a Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Prompt action is essential to ensure patient safety.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with the use of this product. Notably, the formulation contains sodium metabisulfite, which may lead to allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals. Therefore, it is advised that patients with known allergies to sulfites refrain from using this product.

In the event that side effects occur, patients are encouraged to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. It is particularly important to seek medical advice if a cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or headache, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Patients are also reminded that they can report any side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Drug Interactions

There are currently no documented drug interactions associated with this medication. Additionally, there are no known 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 Dm (dextromethorphan polistirex). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Cough Dm.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients aged 12 years and older may be administered 10 mL every 12 hours, with a maximum dosage of 20 mL in a 24-hour period. For children aged 6 to under 12 years, the recommended dosage is 5 mL every 12 hours, not to exceed 10 mL in 24 hours. In 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. The use of this medication is not recommended in children under 4 years of age.

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 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 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. 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. The national Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

Healthcare professionals should be aware that timely intervention is crucial in managing overdose situations. Symptoms of overdose may vary depending on the substance involved and the individual’s health status. Therefore, a thorough assessment and monitoring of the patient are essential.

Management procedures may include supportive care and symptomatic treatment, tailored to the specific symptoms presented. It is recommended that healthcare providers remain vigilant and prepared to implement appropriate interventions based on the clinical presentation of the patient.

Nonclinical Toxicology

If pregnant or breast-feeding, it is advised to consult a health professional prior to use. The product contains sodium metabisulfite, which is a sulfite that may lead to allergic-type reactions in sensitive individuals.

No specific information regarding nonclinical toxicology or animal pharmacology and toxicology is provided in the insert.

Postmarketing Experience

Postmarketing experience has identified the presence of sodium metabisulfite in the formulation, which is a sulfite that may lead to allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals.

Users are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if side effects occur. Additionally, it is recommended to seek medical advice if a cough persists for more than seven days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or headache, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Adverse events and side effects can be reported to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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 must be instructed to discontinue use and consult a doctor if they experience any side effects. Additionally, they should be informed that side effects can be reported 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 with a dosing cup included for accurate measurement. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) to ensure optimal stability and efficacy. Proper storage conditions are essential for maintaining the integrity of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. Clinicians should advise patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding to consult a health professional prior to use. It is important to keep the medication out of reach of children. In the event of an overdose, patients should seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. No further information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for 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 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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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.