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Leader 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
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2016
Label revision date
October 31, 2025
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
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2016
Label revision date
October 31, 2025
Manufacturer
Cardinal Health 110, LLC. dba Leader
Registration number
ANDA091135
NDC root
70000-0187

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Drug Overview

LEADER™ Cough DM is an orange-flavored liquid cough suppressant that contains dextromethorphan polistirex. It is designed to temporarily relieve cough caused by minor throat and bronchial irritation, which can occur with the common cold or from inhaled irritants. This medication can also help reduce the urge to cough, making it easier for you to get to sleep.

With its extended-release formula, LEADER™ Cough DM provides relief for up to 12 hours and is alcohol-free. It comes with a dosing cup for easy measurement, ensuring you can take the right amount for effective relief.

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 it with other products can lead to incorrect dosing.

For adults and children aged 12 and over, 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 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 discussing any concerns with a healthcare professional before starting new medications.

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 could be signs of a more serious condition, and you should seek medical advice promptly.

For any side effects you encounter, you can report them 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 under 12 years, the dosage is 5 mL every 12 hours, not exceeding 10 mL in a day. If your child is between 4 and under 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 wise to discuss any potential risks or benefits with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken.

Always keep in mind that older adults may have different responses to medications, so regular check-ins with your healthcare team are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

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 (issues with liver function).

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

Drug Interactions

It's crucial to talk to your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, especially if you are on a prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Using this medication while taking an MAOI or within two weeks of stopping it can lead to serious interactions that may affect your health. Always ensure that your healthcare team is aware of all the medications and supplements you are using to help prevent any potential risks.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the best results with your product, store it in a cool, dry place at a temperature between 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). Before using, make sure to shake the bottle well to mix the contents properly. Always use the dosing cup provided to measure your dosage, and avoid using this cup with any other products to maintain safety and accuracy.

Once you open the carton or if the printed foil under the cap is broken or missing, please discard the product to ensure your safety. Following these guidelines will help you use the product effectively and safely.

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 LEADER™ Cough DM?

LEADER™ Cough DM is a dextromethorphan polistirex extended-release oral suspension cough suppressant, available in an orange-flavored liquid.

How does LEADER™ Cough DM work?

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

What are the dosing instructions for adults and children over 12?

Adults and children 12 years and older should take 10 mL every 12 hours, not exceeding 20 mL in 24 hours.

Can children under 4 years use LEADER™ Cough DM?

No, LEADER™ Cough DM should not be used in children under 4 years of age.

What should I do if I experience side effects?

Stop use 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 there an allergy alert for this product?

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

What should I avoid while using LEADER™ Cough DM?

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

What should I do in case of overdose?

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

How should I store LEADER™ Cough DM?

Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) and discard if the carton is opened or the printed foil under the cap is broken or missing.

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

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

Packaging Info

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

Packaging configurations for Leader Cough Dm.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Leader 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 specified drug.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the temporary relief of cough associated with minor throat and bronchial irritation, which may occur due to the common cold or inhaled irritants. It also serves to alleviate the impulse to cough, thereby 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 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 indicated for use in children under 4 years of age.

Healthcare professionals should ensure that patients adhere to these dosing guidelines or any alternative 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 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 at least 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. Patients with a known sulfite allergy should be advised to avoid this product.

General Precautions Prior to use, patients should consult a healthcare provider if they have a chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Additionally, individuals experiencing a cough that produces excessive phlegm (mucus) should seek medical advice before using this product.

Stop Taking and Call Your Doctor Instructions Patients are instructed to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional 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, patients should seek medical attention, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Get Emergency Medical Help Instructions In the event of an overdose, immediate medical assistance should be sought, or the Poison Control Center should be contacted at 1-800-222-1222.

Side Effects

Patients may experience adverse reactions associated with the use of this medication. Notably, there is an Allergy Alert due to the presence of sodium metabisulfite, a sulfite that may provoke allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals.

Patients are advised to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if any side effects occur. It is also recommended that patients seek medical attention if a cough persists for more than 7 days, recurs, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or headache lasting longer than expected, as these symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

For any adverse reactions, patients are encouraged to report their experiences to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Drug Interactions

The concomitant use of this medication with prescription monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) is contraindicated. Patients should not take this medication while on MAOIs or for a period of two weeks following the discontinuation of MAOI therapy. The combination may result in serious interactions that could pose significant health risks. It is essential to ensure that the patient has completed the appropriate washout period before initiating treatment with this medication.

Packaging & NDC

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

Packaging configurations for Leader 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

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, 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 or nursing infant.

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 patients with reduced kidney function, as the absence of detailed guidance necessitates careful clinical judgment and monitoring of these patients.

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 accordingly.

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 arise during the course of treatment.

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

Reports of side effects associated with the use of the product have been received through voluntary reporting and surveillance programs. Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report any adverse events to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. This information contributes to the ongoing monitoring of the product's safety profile.

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.

Patients should be informed of the Allergy Alert regarding the presence of sodium metabisulfite, which is a sulfite that may lead to allergic-type reactions in susceptible individuals.

It is important for healthcare providers to instruct patients to discontinue use and consult a doctor if any side effects occur. Patients may also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Patients should be cautioned to stop use and seek medical advice if their cough persists for more than 7 days, returns after improvement, or is accompanied by fever, rash, or a headache that lasts. These symptoms may indicate a serious underlying condition.

Healthcare providers should encourage patients to consult a doctor prior to use if they have a chronic cough associated with smoking, asthma, or emphysema. Additionally, patients should be advised to seek medical guidance 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 integrity. It should be stored at a temperature range of 20° to 25°C (68° 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. Additionally, if the carton is opened or if the printed foil under the cap is broken or missing, the product should be discarded to ensure safety and efficacy.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. 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. In the event of an overdose, patients are advised to seek medical assistance or contact a Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. No additional information is available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Leader 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 Leader 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.